Shaykh al-Islam, may Allah have mercy on him, held that wiping over foot wrappings is permissible (1), and this is the correct view. The person wearing a foot wrapping has a greater excuse than one wearing a leather sock, for removing the leather sock, washing the foot, and then putting the sock back on is easier than untying this wrapping and rewrapping it. Thus, if the Sacred Law has permitted wiping over leather socks, then foot wrappings are even more deserving of that concession.

Moreover, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, instructed the expedition that he dispatched to wipe over their head-wraps and foot-warmers (2) ...

From the word “foot-warmers,” we infer the permissibility of wiping over foot wrappings, because they provide warmth. The purpose for which leather socks are worn is likewise present in wearing foot wrappings.

Nor [may one wipe over] that which falls off the foot, ...

His statement, “Nor [may one wipe over] that which falls off the foot,” means that one may not wipe over something that falls off the foot. This is based on the condition that, for wiping over a leather sock to be permissible, it must remain in place by itself, or with two sandals, until they are removed. For a leather sock that does not remain in place is not customary, and so it is not included in the textual evidence. People do not wear leather socks that fall off while walking, and there is no benefit in such a thing. This is clear in the case of one who walks, for he would not wear it.

But if it were supposed that a disabled patient unable to walk wore such a leather sock for warmth, then, according to the author’s view, he would not be permitted to wipe over it.