Gallop to Success with the 2026 iCEV Equine Science Certification Test – Saddle Up Your Knowledge!

In hunter under saddle classes, the focus is on evaluating the horse's movement, disposition, and overall suitability for the hunter discipline. The gaits typically demonstrated during these classes include the walk, trot, and canter. Each of these gaits has specific characteristics that are assessed for quality and rhythm, reflecting the horse's training and ability to perform in a hunter setting.

The lope, while commonly associated with western riding disciplines, is not a recognized gait for hunter under saddle classes. In this context, the lope is considered a more casual, slower version of the canter that does not align with the traditional expectations of hunter performance. The class typically features the trot and canter as the primary gaits, emphasizing the horse's grace and rhythm.

This distinction helps in understanding the specific requirements and performance standards for hunter under saddle, effectively differentiating it from other equestrian disciplines where the lope might be more relevant.