Whether you're building a fire-type team or just love the aesthetic of a horse with a mane made of flames, Rapidash is a classic choice for any trainer. With its fiery original form and the pastel-colored Galarian version introduced in Pokémon Sword and Shield, there is plenty to consider when adding this Pokémon to your party.

How to Evolve Ponyta into Rapidash

Getting your hands on a Rapidash is straightforward regardless of which version you are using. You simply need to raise your Ponyta to level 40. This evolution requirement remains consistent for both the Kanto and Galarian forms of the Pokémon.

Base Stats and Performance

Both standard and Galarian Rapidash possess an identical base stat spread, making them consistent performers in terms of speed and physical damage. Here is the breakdown:

  • HP: 65
  • Attack: 100
  • Defense: 70
  • Sp. Atk: 80
  • Sp. Def: 80
  • Speed: 105

With an EV yield of two speed, Rapidash is designed to strike quickly, allowing you to take advantage of its 100 base Attack stat.

Type Strengths and Weaknesses

Because the Galarian form changes the typing entirely, you need to be aware of the different matchups for each variant:

Standard Rapidash (Fire)

  • Weaknesses: Ground, Rock, Water
  • Resistances: Bug, Fairy, Fire, Grass, Ice, Steel
  • Abilities: Run Away, Flash Fire (Hidden: Flame Body)

Galarian Rapidash (Psychic/Fairy)

  • Weaknesses: Ghost, Poison, Steel
  • Resistances: Fighting, Psychic
  • Immunities: Dragon
  • Abilities: Run Away, Pastel Veil (Hidden: Anticipation)

Where to Find Rapidash

Availability varies significantly by generation. While many entries require you to evolve a Ponyta, specific titles allow for wild encounters. Notably, Galarian Rapidash debuted in Gen VIII and can be found in Pokémon Shield in areas such as Bridge Field, Hammerlocke Hills, and the Lake of Outrage. In Pokémon Legends: Arceus, it can be found in the Coronet Highlands and the Obsidian Fieldlands (specifically the Horseshoe Plains).

If you are playing older titles like Gold or Silver, look to Route 28 and Mount Silver. For those playing FireRed or LeafGreen, check Kindle Road and Mount Ember.