The organic Merino wool used in this garment is certified by IVN as BEST which meets and exceeds GOTS organic standards. Engel themselves say:
'Ecological husbandry is motivated by esteem and respect for animal and man. The Merino sheep that produce our wool are kept according to the requirements appropriate to the species, so that they can live in a healthy and stress-free way. The pastures therefore must suit the Merino sheep in both climatic and ecological conditions.
The use of pesticides both on the meadows and the animal is inadmissible. The animals procreate in a natural way and any kind of change on the animal such as trimming the tail or mulesing are forbidden. In short – the sheep should live a happy life!
The merino virgin wool used in ENGEL’s woollen and wool/silk underwear is from organic husbandry. The certified organic origin of the wool ensures that it has been produced without noxious substances like pesticides and herbicides. Therefore, these clothes are awarded the highest certificate, the quality hallmark NATURTEXTIL–IVN ZERTIFIZIERT BEST.'
The Merino sheep usually thrive in mountainous areas at high altitudes resulting in wool which has many benefits when worn next to the skin and about the body.
Find out more about the properties of wool here in our blog here.
Engel call their next-to-the-skin layers made from this fabric "the underwear that nothing can top". My children still think so too!
The health benefits of wool are being revealed time and time again. Studies have shown that it's better for the health of premature babies if they are nursed on wool rather than cotton and it's better for the skin of hospital patients if they lie on wool rather than polyester.
Wool helps sleep too. At least two studies show that people get a better night's sleep with wool around them - they go to sleep more quickly, sleep longer and have better quality sleep too.
Please note that under EU labelling regulations, stating the type of wool is not allowed, only a statement of "100% wool" or "new wool" is allowed. However, this garment is certified organic Merino wool.
For centuries, silk has been known as the premier fabric to wear next to the skin. It is very smooth, so it's non-irritating, and it has good insulation properties giving it good warmth for its lightness. It is also naturally antibacterial and healthy for the skin.
Combining the Merino wool and silk gives the thermo-regulating properties of soft, fine wool with the silkiness of pure silk on the skin. Engel call their next-to-the-skin layers made from this fabric "the underwear that nothing can top". My children still think so too!
"Have been worn by busy 3,5 years old as warm under layer on frosty days. Ideal for that purpose! After wearing them for a couple of weeks they look used and I would use them under a dress but not just so anymore."
This was washed... Washed fine in the wool program
This was worn by... 3.5 year old girl
Sizing: Feels true to size
I'd recommend this to a friend.
This was washed... not needed washing yet
"These leggings are fantastic: soft not itchy and warm without over heating. My son wore them as a thermal layer last winter and again as a base layer underneath waterproof over-trousers when we went for woodland walks in August. Thank goodness they still fit. Luck has been with us, no wee accidents while wearing these so we've not had to wash them, just aired them out between wearings. Great clothes."
This was worn by... my son at 3.5 and still wearing them now at 4
Sizing: A little generous
"These are wonderful, very warm but thin enough to go under all of my sons trousers. My son loves them and won't take them off. He says they're super comfy and he's very hard to please!"
This was worn by... My active 6 year old who is outside whatever the weather
"These are good quality and a great warm layer. They wash well in machine. They are too baggy and see through to wear completely alone."
This was washed... washed fine
This was worn by... My ten year old daughter
"Very soft against skin. A good warm layer under playclothes or warm on their own as pajamas."
This was worn by... my 9-year old daughter
Product 18/19