ENGEL organic boiled wool shirt – the kind of top you think: why didn't anyone come up with this sooner?
There are some garments that feel right the moment you touch them. This overshirt from Engel is exactly that. Soft, woolly, sturdy, yet not bulky at all. It is a men's shirt that just as easily functions as a jacket, mid-layer, or warm cardigan. And honestly: I love that Engel – for years the go-to brand for underwear and thermal wool – is now making outerwear. And at this level, too.
Why you want it
This shirt is made of 100% organic boiled merino wool. "Boiled" means the wool is slightly felted, making the material more compact, sturdy, and warm without becoming heavy. It feels like a cross between a shirt and a shacket. Wonderfully warm, breathable (so no sweaty issues), and suitable for both indoors and outdoors.
It comes in four beautiful colors – lava, jade, pacific, and reddish-brown – and believe me: each color has its own character. Rutger likes to wear these kinds of shirts over a T-shirt for a casual look, but you can just as easily wear it buttoned up as a real shirt. Highly versatile, which I always consider a plus.
Fit & styling
The fit is relaxed without being too loose. The buttons are made of wood, which immediately gives it such a nice natural vibe. Wear it open, wear it closed, pair it with denim or smart chinos – it all works. And for all the men who always say they "don't like sweaters": this is your solution.
Material & care
Wool is self-cleaning, so washing is almost never necessary. Hang it outside occasionally and it will smell fresh again. Should you decide to wash it anyway, do so cold and exclusively with wool detergent containing lanolin.
Our favorite? Lanalicious. Lanolin – the natural wool fat – nourishes the fibers, keeps your shirt supple, and prevents the wool from drying out. And yes, that really makes a difference.
Essential for wool clothing
Does your shirt or sweater have some lint? Use the Gleener – the safest way to keep wool looking good. You can find it here in the shop.
Washing advice
Don't wash too often, be sparing with detergent, don't overload the washing machine, and remove it immediately after the cycle to prevent streaks. Always let wool dry lying flat. You can view extra tips in this video. But also read our washing guide, which you receive with every purchase, carefully.
FAQ
1. Is this shirt warm enough for outdoors?
Yes, with a shirt underneath, it is the perfect soft, warm intermediate jacket for mild days.
2. Is it itchy?
Boiled wool feels softer and more compact than many other types of wool. Most men find it perfectly comfortable to wear against the skin or with a thin shirt underneath.
3. How does the sizing run?
True to size. Do you want to wear it as a real jacket? You may want to take one size larger for a looser fit.
4. Do I have to wash this often?
No. Wool is self-cleaning. Airing it out works better than washing.
5. Is the wool organic?
Yes, Engel exclusively uses high-quality certified organic merino wool.
Personal advice & store visit
Are you unsure about the size or color? Call us during opening hours at 010-7954177 or email klantenservice@natur-el.nl. We are happy to help.
In our store in the Oude Noorden of Rotterdam, you can try on and feel all the colors. You are welcome at Zwaanshals 376, Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.