A composite article comprises first and second members (20, 22) integrally joined together, one containing the other, or substantially so, and the first member (20) being of an expanded plastics material whilst the second member (22) is of a denser material having generally greater strength characteristics. Overall the article has an impact absorbing strength substantially greater than that of the first member. The first member may be of a polyurethane foam and the second member may be of a thermoplastics material, which may be vacuum formed to shape. The second member (22) may form an elastically deformable core element of the article covered by the first member (20). One form of the composite article is a bull bar or other protective bar of a vehicle which is capable of flexing upon impact, but also has sufficient strength to provide adequate protection to the vehicle. Other forms of the article include a baton and a twin sheet panel, which may be a vehicle body panel or body component.