What is indicated by a sock leg marking?

A sock leg marking is characterized by a white marking that begins at the coronet band—where the hoof meets the leg—and extends halfway up the cannon bone. This type of marking is commonly seen in horses and serves as a sign of breed characteristics, conformation, and sometimes even individual identification. The definition of a sock is specific in that it must extend a certain distance up the leg but not cover it completely, which distinguishes it from other markings that would cover the entire leg. Understanding this terminology is essential for identifying and describing horses accurately, especially in contexts such as breeding, showing, or veterinary care.