The Splashed White pattern is generally more recognizable than the other two designated Overo markings, though it can occasionally be some confusion with Sabino. This is a less common type of spotting vs Sabino and Frame Overo, occurring in a more limited number of breeds as well. It is becoming more popular, however, particularly in the US, and more Paint Horse studs are breeding specifically for it.

The white patches appear as though the horse was dipped in white paint. The marks generally spread horizontally along the lower body – and even the tail.

• Head: The head is often all-white or nearly all-white with a "medicine hat". "Moustache" markings, representing a patch of dark skin on the upper lip, are not uncommon.

• Top line: Body is generally dark towards the top, and white on the bottom, often along a semi-straight line. The white will almost never cross over the top line except in maximally marked horses.

• Mane and tail: Depending on the extent of the white up the body, the top part of the tail is generally fully coloured, with the bottom part white. The white in the tail makes the Splashed White distinctive from other types of overos. Some may even have an all-white tail. The mane is usually coloured.

• Hooves and lower legs: Hooves are generally white or striped. All legs are white, from the ground and spreading upward.

• Eyes: Both eyes are generally blue (wall).

• Body patterns tend to be regular and smooth with a sharp contrast between the white and the coloured areas. There is rarely any ticking or shadowing effect unless the Sabino gene is also present – which is not unusual.The pattern can also be altered by the presence of the Frame gene.

Splashed White horses are often deaf in some breeds, including the Paint Horse. Some breeders have noted that this is particularly the case if the white surrounds the eyes directly, which is often the case. The high correlation between Splashed White markings and deafness suggests that some pattern genes can also bring about other non-colour-related effects.

As yet, there is no test for the Splashed White gene. Some geneticists believe that it could be a mutation of the Frame or Sabino gene given that it occurs in a limited number of breeds and/or in limited geographic areas. There has been historic debate as to whether the gene for this trait is dominant or recessive. Current research today suggests the former.

Little is yet documented on how the Splashed White gene is passed on. It is also unclear the whether a Splashed White is viable in a homozygous state, though preliminary research suggests that it is.