How It Works
Wudu Guard vs Khuffain
Wudu Guard Waterproof Socks work on the same rulings as the Khuffain leather socks. During Wudu, Muslims who wear Khuffain may perform Masah, wiping over their covered feet as an alternative to washing them. Wudu Guard Waterproof Socks are officially certified to meet the requirements for Masah and a copy of the Fatwa can be view here: Wudu Guard Waterproof Socks Fatwa (Arabic)
Wudu Guard Waterproof Socks provide you with the same benefits and convenience that Khuffain leather socks have but with additional advantages. Here are some of the areas where Wudu Guard outperforms:
- Waterproofing - While leather resists water from reaching your foot it is still permeable. Wudu Guard socks are 100% Waterproof keeping your foot completely dry.
- Comfort - Leather is breathable but it tends to get sweaty after extended periods of wear. Wudu Guard socks have a Coolmax FX lining which wicks moisture away from your foot and towards the outer layer. This makes Wudu Guard exponentially more comfortable than leather socks.
- Usability - When wearing Khuffain, users often have to size up their footwear. This is because leather socks tend to be bulkier and heavier than your standard cotton socks. With Wudu Guard socks there is no compromise as they feel and weigh similarly to pair of cotton crew socks. Wudu Guard socks are thin enough that you can wear them with the footwear you currently wear. They also look just like normal socks meaning that they won't clash with work wear or uniforms.
- Hygiene - Wudu Guard Waterproof Socks have a Coolmax FX lining which is anti-bacterial and anti-odor making Wudu Guard a hygienic choice. Also Wudu Guard socks can be laundered for complete cleaning, unlike leather which should not be submerged in water.
In case you are curious on what constitutes an acceptable sock for Masah, we have summarized the Shariah rulings. You can also refer to AskImam.org for rulings.
Shariah Rulings
Khuffain are the traditional socks for Masah, but they are not the only suitable solution. Here are the requirements for a sock to be compliant:
- The socks should not allow for water not to seep through and reach the foot.
- The socks must be thick enough to stand upright without being tied.
- The socks should not tear from walking continuously for 3 to 4 miles.
- The socks must be free from holes larger than the size of 3 small toes.
Versus Regular Cotton Socks
Unfortunately, regular cotton socks are not permitted for making Masah since they do not meet the above mentioned requirements. There is a misconception that wiping or performing Masah over cotton socks is permissible, however Islamic Scholars refute this idea.
Also reference Which Type of Socks Are Permitted to Wipe Over for further reading.
How To Use The Socks
- Socks are put on in a state of Wudu. A normal Wudu must be performed initially.
- Wudu is broken while wearing socks.
- Once Wudu is broken, there is a time limit of 24 hours or 72 hours if traveling. (Travel distance must be at least 48 miles)
- During the prescribed time limit, Masah can be applied when performing the next Wudu.
- To wipe, a user must take wet hands and wipe from the length of the toes to the top of the sock. Also it should be at least 3 fingers wide.
- The right hand wipes the right sock and the left hand wipes the left sock. Each sock is only wiped once.
- Only the top of each sock is wiped, not the bottom.
If you are curious about how the technology of Wudu Guard Waterproof Socks works then please read on.
How Wudu Guard Waterproofing Works
Wudu Guard Waterproof Socks are made up of synthetic materials and consist of 3 layers.
- Outer Shell - The outer shell is made of durable nylon. In addition to being abrasion resistant, the shell repels water and resists wind.
- Waterproof and Breathable Membrane - The interlining is a membrane which is bonded to the inner and outer layers. This membrane is both waterproof and breathable keeping you dry while letting heat and moisture escape. This technology is also found on high end waterproof jackets.
- Inner Layer - The inner lining is made from Coolmax FX fabric, which provides a snug comfortable fit. The lining is moisture-wicking to keep your feet dry and odor-free.