Halfpass

Halfpass is a term used in horseback riding, primarily in dressage, to describe a specific lateral movement. In a half-pass, the horse travels forward while moving diagonally to the side, with the hindquarters crossing in front of the forehand. The horse is typically in a more collected frame, and the head and neck may be slightly bent in the direction of travel. The name reflects the diagonal, partly crossed path of the legs.

The movement is performed along the long side of the arena, or along a curved line, and is executed to the left or to the right. It requires true engagement of the hindquarters, balance, and precise coordination between horse and rider, with light, guiding aids used to maintain tempo, bend, and direction. It is considered an advanced lateral movement and is often used to demonstrate the horse’s suppleness, balance, and responsiveness.

Etymology and context: The name half-pass (or halfpass) reflects the diagonal, partly crossed path of the legs relative to the arena lines; the term is often hyphenated as half-pass. In dressage literature it is described as a more demanding variation of lateral movements such as the shoulder-in, requiring collection and flexibility.

Outside dressage, the term is rarely used; thus halfpass has no widely recognized alternative meaning. In practice, it refers almost exclusively to this movement in horsemanship. See also: dressage movements, lateral movements.