The Kushum is a breed from Kazakhstan, where it is valued for its excellent endurance.

The development of the Kushum started in the 1930s, and was done in three stages. First, Kazakh mares were crossed with Thoroughbreds, Orlov Trotters, and Russian Trotters. Then, the foals from the first stage were crossed with Don horses. In the last stage, foals from the second stage were crossed with each other. The result was the Kushum breed.

Originally, Kushum horses were bred to serve as cavalry for the Red Army, and as such great attention was paid to their endurance, and their ability to cope well with the local climate. Herds of Kushum horses were kept outside all year round, and received only minimal care to ensure that only the fittest horses survive. Over several decades, the Kushum developed into a hardy breed with outstanding endurance. Nowadays, as part of their breeding process, Kushum horses are tested for their stamina and performance as harness horses.

Today, the Kushum is a common breed in Kazakhstan, where it is valued for its endurance. It is usually used for riding and harness, and mares are milked regularly.

There are three subtypes of Kushum horses: heavy type, which is the most muscular type; saddle type, which is lighter; and basic type. In Horse Isle, only the Heavy Kushum and the Saddle Kushum can be found.

The conformation of the Kushum is characterized by a large head with a straight or convex profile, a medium-length neck, well-defined withers, a large chest, a long and straight back, and a short but muscular croup.

Kushum horses come in the colors of bay, brown, and chestnut. They stand between 15hh and 15.3hh.