Draft Crosses

Destriers, Coursers, & Palfreys

Standard of Type for the North American Palfrey Horse:

The North American Palfrey Horse is a versatile and elegant Horse known for its smooth gaits, gentle demeanor, and adaptability. This Horse may exhibit light feathering on the legs as a feature, adding to its charm and historical significance. Here is a detailed description of the North American Palfrey Horse, highlighting its key characteristics:

General Description:
The North American Palfrey Horse is a medium-sized equine with a well-proportioned body and a refined appearance. It combines strength, agility, and grace in a harmonious manner, making it an ideal mount for various riding disciplines.

Head:
The head of the North American Palfrey is well-shaped, with expressive eyes that convey intelligence and kindness. The profile may be straight or slightly convex, enhancing the Horse's overall elegance. Ears are alert and mobile, reflecting the horse's attentive nature.

Neck:
The neck of the Palfrey is arched and gracefully proportioned, blending smoothly into well-defined withers. It is muscular yet elegant, providing a balanced and attractive silhouette. The presence or absence of light feathering on the legs does not detract from the Horse's overall beauty and utility.

Body:
The body of the North American Palfrey is compact and muscular, with a deep chest and strong hindquarters. The back is short and well-muscled, supporting the rider comfortably during long hours in the saddle. The ribs are well-sprung, indicating robust health and stamina.

Legs:
The legs of the Palfrey are straight and sturdy, with well-defined joints and solid hooves. Some individuals may exhibit light feathering on the lower legs, adding a touch of elegance to their appearance. The cannon bones are of moderate length, providing strength and agility for various riding activities.

Movement:
The North American Palfrey moves with fluidity and grace, showcasing smooth and comfortable gaits that are a pleasure to ride. Whether performing a walk, trot, or canter, this Horse excels in providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for the rider. The presence of light feathering on the legs does not hinder its movement but adds to its distinctive look.

Color:
The coat of the North American Palfrey Horse comes in a range of colors, including solid hues and various patterns. Common coat colors include black, bay, chestnut, and gray, with or without markings. The presence of light feathering on the legs may complement the coat color, enhancing the Horse's overall appearance.

The North American Palfrey Horse embodies a harmonious blend of beauty, athleticism, and temperament.

We are proud members of the North American Destrier Horse Registry. We share the passion for the mission of draft crosses, specifically crossbred Friesians and Gypsy Cobs towards recreating the medieval warrior, the Destrier. We also share a passion for two additional medieval war horse breeds: the Courser and the Palfrey, which are both also draft crosses. Above please click the button to read the Destrier breed standard. Below, from the North American Destrier Registry website, they have published the following breed standards:

Reference: North American Destrier Registry. (2024). Retrieved on August 11, 2024, from https://www.nadhr.org/north-american-subbook

Standard of Type for the North American Courser Horse:

The North American Courser Horse is a versatile and utilitarian equine known for its endurance, agility, and adaptability. This Horse may exhibit light feathering on the legs as a feature, but it can also be found without this characteristic. Courser Horses come in a wide range of colors, adding to their diversity and appeal. Here is a detailed description of the North American Courser Horse, highlighting its key characteristics:

General Description:
The North American Courser Horse is a medium to large-sized equine with a sturdy and well-muscled build. Renowned for its endurance and athleticism, the Courser combines strength and agility in a utilitarian package, making it well-suited for a variety of tasks and riding disciplines.

Head:
The head of the North American Courser is proportionate to the body, with a straight or slightly convex profile. The eyes are alert and expressive, reflecting the Horse's intelligence and keen awareness of its surroundings. Ears are well-shaped and mobile, adding to the horse's overall functionality.

Neck:
The neck of the Courser Horse is muscular and arching, blending smoothly into well-defined withers. It is of moderate length and thickness, providing strength and flexibility for various activities. The presence or absence of light feathering on the legs does not affect the Horse's utilitarian nature.

Body:
The body of the North American Courser is strong and well-built, with a deep chest and powerful hindquarters. The back is sturdy and well-muscled, supporting the rider or carrying out tasks with efficiency. The ribs are well-sprung, indicating a robust constitution and endurance.

Legs:
The legs of the Courser Horse are strong and solid, with well-defined joints and tough hooves. Some individuals may display light feathering on the lower legs, adding a touch of elegance to their appearance. The cannon bones are of moderate length, providing stability and agility for demanding tasks.

Movement:
The North American Courser moves with purpose and agility, showcasing smooth and efficient gaits that are well-suited for work and riding. Whether trotting, cantering, or galloping, this Horse excels in covering ground with stamina and precision. The presence of light feathering on the legs, if present, does not impede its movement but adds to its distinctive look.

Color:
The coat of the North American Courser Horse can come in any color or pattern, reflecting the Horse's diversity and versatility. From solid shades to striking patterns, Courser Horses exhibit a wide range of coat colors, enhancing their visual appeal and individuality.

The North American Courser Horse embodies a blend of strength, agility, and functionality, making it a valuable asset for various tasks and equestrian pursuits.

  • CR Gunnr of Kattegat

    Registered North American Courser

    DNA Draft Cross: Belgian x Standardbred

    16.2hh gelding, 12 years old

    Gunnr won six 1st Place awards in the NADHR Summer 2024 Horse Show

  • CR Queen of the Black Wind "Yara"

    Yara is a sweet and beautiful smooth mouth blonde Belgian mare. Belgians are the bulldozers of the draft breeds. Crossing Belgians with refinement and agility can produce great minded horses with work great work ethic combined with the athleticism of the cross.

  • CR Thyra

    Andalusian Cross

    14.2hh mare 10 years old

    Thyra is a very sweet and beautiful crossbred mare. She is a gorgeous mover. Very Andalusianie.