töltporton

Töltporton is a specific gait performed by the Icelandic horse breed. It is a four-beat, lateral, symmetrical gait characterized by a smooth, gliding motion. Unlike the trot, which is a two-beat diagonal gait, the tölt is known for its comfortable ride, allowing the rider to maintain a stable seat. Each foot strikes the ground independently, creating a sequence of hoof falls where one foot is always on the ground. This contributes to the gait's evenness and stability, even at higher speeds.

The tölt is one of the five gaits typically recognized in Icelandic horses, alongside the walk, trot, gallop, and the unique "flying pace" (skeið). While many horses can perform a form of tölt, it is most consistently and proficiently found in Icelandic horses, making it a defining characteristic of the breed. Training for tölt requires specific techniques to develop the horse's natural ability for this gait. Riders of Icelandic horses often value the tölt for its comfort and versatility, allowing for efficient travel over various terrains. The speed and responsiveness of the tölt can vary greatly depending on the individual horse and its training.