Rack/Saddle Rack

This is the speed gait. The support first by two, then by one foot hoof at a time with suspension of the other legs. It is considered a 1-2 set down gait. So there is either 3 feet in the air or 2 feet in the air while the others are on the ground. Some describe the feel of the horse’s front end as climbing a ladder. The speed can be so fast as to blur the images of the legs. Some viewed by the naked eyes may look like a pace and can only be seen by using the slow motion of a camera.

The following are examples of the flat shod rack as demonstrated by the two breeds indicated.

Racking Horse

Not exaggerated high action, can overstep front tracks.

If you want to see in slow motion, highlight speed from … and select a slower speed.

Saddle Rack

The Saddle Rack is called the Saddle Gait by some other breeds. Lateral hooves appear to lift off at the same time, but set down at an evenly timed four beat gait. 1-2-3-4. There are always two or three feet on the ground at any given time. It is considered a 2-3 set down gait. So there is either 2 feet in the air or one foot in the air while the others are on the ground. If done correctly, there is very little movement in the saddle. The gait feels smooth and looks smooth. The tail may be swishing from side to side with the pumping up and down of the rear hips. This is a common gait of Gaited Morgans.