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 bought two vests for my daughters to wear this winter. I was them every few days, at hand wash setting. The fabric is beautiful quality, my daughters are delighted with them and are reluctant to take them off. Then fit down below hip level so no riding up or cold tummies."
This was washed... had to be careful
This was worn by... Both daughters, 6 and 9
Sizing: A little generous
I'd recommend this to a friend.
"Keeps that chest warm..."
This was washed... washed fine
This was worn by... 2.5 year old
Sizing: Feels true to size
This was washed... I hand wash Occasionally
"When I bought this top out for the winter my son was so pleased. He doesn’t usually make any comments about clothes but he especially liked this top and said it felt cool and smooth."
This was washed... Haven’t washed it much
This was worn by... My 4 year old son
"We needed this fine layer to add warmth under our daughter's uniform to keep her core warmer but won't make her sweat when being indoor. Bought one size up since she is kind of in between sizes,lots of stretch for growing room but it's not baggy on her. Soft feeling for our daughter's sensitive skin."
This was washed... not needed washing yet
This was worn by... My 4 years old daughter
"I buy these vests for my kids every year to see them though the winter. They love them as they are soft and cosy. The white ones are trickier to wash than the stripes and I have to be careful to keep them separate to ensure they go in a wool wash or I do a quick hand wash."
This was worn by... My 5 and 6 year olds
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