Is It Permitted to Wipe Over Thick Socks?

Answered by Ustadh Tabraze Azam

Question

What are the ranges of opinions for wiping over socks for wudhu? I have heard on one end that you need leather socks and on the other end that any type of sock is okay (even with some holes). Understanding these opinions will help me in my workplace

Answer

I pray that you are in the best of health and faith, insha’Allah.

It is permitted to wipe over thick socks which fulfill the conditions of valid footgear (khuffs).

Conditions

The most important of these are:

1. The ability to walk 3.5 miles or so in them without tearing;
2. Thickness such that water doesn’t penetrate through to the foot upon wiping with a dripping wet hand.

Many standard dress socks may not be sufficient, but hiking or trekking socks often can be.

Please See:
Wiping over Knitted Socks During Ablution (Wudu)
Can I Wipe Over My Footgear (Khuffs) If There Is a Tear In Them?

And Allah alone gives success.

[Ustadh] Tabraze Azam
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani.