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!
"I only buy these vest tops for my children. They are the best as they can be worn for weeks without needing a wash plus they really keep us all warm without being overheated. I cannot recommend them more and they are worth the extra pennies as you'll be saving on washing and not needing to buy too many vests. I only have 1 for each child and if it's dirty for some odd reason, I wash it quickly in my sink in the evening and it's dry and ready for the next day. I have also put it in the washing machine before and luckily it came out the same as it went in and didn't shrink... I have the colourful ones and not the natural one. Don't hesitate.. buy one!"
This was washed... washed fine
This was worn by... My active 5 year old boy and my angelic new baby
Sizing: Feels true to size
I'd recommend this to a friend.
"Adore these vests. Been buying the sleeveless ones for years for my kids. But now with Corona and all school windows open all year, they need long sleeved ones. Even my 'everything's itchy' 12 year old likes these. They are lightweight but very warm. And I have to admit I rarely rarely wash them, they never smell... Brilliant."
This was washed... had to be careful
This was worn by... My 12 and 9 year old boys
"Bought fir my grandson who has sensitive skin but the size 16 yrs did not look as if it would fit him (he is 15 and normal size). He has been ill and hasn’t tried it on yet but as it’s so delayed we may have to give it to his younger sister if it doesn’t fit."
This was washed... not needed washing yet
This was worn by... No one yet!
Sizing: Too small
I wouldn't really recommend this to a friend.
"Excellent and just what we were looking for"
This was worn by... My grandson
"I always buy this one size up, especially if you plan to machine wash. My son wore it almost everyday last winter and it has held up really well."
This was worn by... Super active 3 year old
Sizing: A little small
"A very useful vest for everyday winter wear and my daughter particularly likes to wear it to pony club."
This was worn by... My active daughter
Product 8/17