But an additional criterion is movement, especially in tough competition. The judge wants to see a horse that appears to flow around the course in long, even strides. In the show ring, hunters are judged on pace, jumping style, manners and soundness. But an additional criterion is movement, especially in tough competition. The judge wants to see a horse that appears to flow around the course in long, even strides.
Movement becomes even more important in hunter under saddle classes.
Regardless of how attractive or well mannered a horse is, if it doesn't move well, it isn't going to nab a high ribbon. Good movement is important in a hunter for three reasons. First, a real hunter on a foxhunt will cover many miles. The horse needs to conserve energy in order to cover all that ground without being exhausted. Excess knee action and a short, choppy gait not only wear down the horse, but also the poor rider who must keep posting, posting, posting to each beat of the trot.