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 have bought 3 sets of these (the long sleeved top and thermal leggings) over the years and I absolutely adore them. They are supremely comfortable and warm. Yes they are expensive but the quality and warmth are unbeatable. Very highly recommended."
This was washed... wool wash needed
This was worn by... me
Sizing: Feels true to size
I'd recommend this to a friend.
"I like the fact that this is not too thick so makes a nice underlayer and yet is very warm. The neckline is attractive and very flexible to wear under lots of different cardigans etc. The downside is that it is a little itchy - not enough to not be able to wear it, but not as comfortable as silk or man-made fibres."
This was washed... washed fine
Sizing: A little generous
"I have several of these vests in various colours but this is my favourite! It's soft and comfortable and great when layered as it's fairly thin and not bulky. Highly recommended."
This was worn by... Me
"Comfy, warm, as I'd expect from merino."
This was washed... Looks and feels slightly less soft since washing, but not much, still very good.
This was worn by... Me, aged 40
"Nice warm vest. Attractive grey colour. Haven't found any negatives yet."
I wouldn't really recommend this to a friend.
"I have three different coloured long sleeved vests and three different coloured sleeveless vests. Mostly I wear a silk vest with sleeveless wool vest over. If it is very cold I then wear the longsleeved wool vests under my tops. I air them between wearings, I hand wash only in cool water. They don't like the washing machine. (I have shrunk one sleevless, which I replaced) I could not manage the winter without them."
This was washed... Hand wash only in cool water. Washing machine shrinks them
This was worn by... Me, 68 year old lady who feels the cold
Product 7/17