Currently, black horses, bay horses and chestnuts each make up about 90% of the Norics. The remaining 10% are leopards and roans. Desired body measurements in stallions: at least 155 cm withers height, 23 to 25 cm cannon bone, and 205 to 215 cm chest girth. Carriage driving courses, horse skidding courses, and the use of this breed as riding, driving, and work horses have increased the importance of Norics. The growing imports of spotted horses from the USA since the 1980s have rekindled interest in colorful Norics. These promising developments have increased the chances of preserving this cultural heritage in Austria.

These dun-colored horses are nearly identical to the unfamiliar eye, with distinct and spectacular markings. Each has a dark dorsal stripe, initiating in the center of the forelock and running through the center of the mane, back and tail. Dark bars on the legs and black fetlocks complete the description. Stallions stand 14 to 14-2 1/2 hands while the mares are 13-1 to 13-3 hands. The Fjord's strength, clean lines and exceptionally adaptable nature have made them equally well suited to harness or saddle. They can be ridden English or Western, hunted, or driven in shows, parades and down country roads.

Exterior: Refined, noble head, high set neck, long shoulder, high withers, not too long, strong back and well-muscled croup. Correctly formed legs, muscular with strong joints. Colour: Bay, black, rarely grey or chestnut Size: Ideally 165 cm, +/- 5 cm Character: Calm, pleasant temper Usage: Sport and pleasure horse, also for driving. Much in demand as Combined Training horse