tölteten

Tölteten is a gait commonly seen in Icelandic horses. It is a four-beat, symmetrical ambling gait that is exceptionally smooth and fast. Unlike the trot, which has a diagonal movement of legs, the tölteten involves a sequence of footfalls where one foot is always on the ground, ensuring a continuous, even rhythm. This characteristic makes it very comfortable for the rider, as there is minimal vertical jarring.

The tölteten is often described as having a "floating" sensation. It typically has a speed range similar to a canter, but with the smoothness of a walk. This unique gait is one of the defining features of the Icelandic horse breed, making them highly sought after for riding, especially for pleasure riding and endurance. There are variations within the tölteten, with some horses exhibiting a more collected and elevated version, while others perform a more extended and ground-covering tölteten.

Training Icelandic horses to perform the tölteten is a specialized skill. It requires careful conditioning and specific training techniques to develop the horse's natural ability for this gait. While other horse breeds can be trained to perform similar gaits, the tölteten is considered innate and highly developed in Icelandic horses. Its presence is a significant factor in the breed's popularity and its suitability for various equestrian disciplines.