Horse Leg Markings

Almost all horses have leg markings of some sort, from a tiny spot of white to whole white legs. Here are the general definitions of each marking (which are a bit more definitive than markings on the face.

White mark is just around the coronet band above the hoof, generally no more than an inch from the hoof.

White marking extends more than an inch above the hoof but stops below the fetlock.

White marking extends over the fetlock joint of the leg and can be called a boot.

White marking extends higher than the fetlock but not higher than the knee or hock.

White markings that extend above the knee or hock, sometimes onto the flank and belly, also called high white.

Many bay horses will have all black socks in addition to or in place of white ones.

Be sure to check out the Leg Markings Cheat Sheet.