The invention relates to a composite hose, which is capable of being used without leakage, and which has a longer length and/or diameter than has been previously achievable. A composite hose comprises a tubular body of flexible material arranged between an inner and an outer helically wound wire. The hose further comprises an axial strengthening means adapted to reduce deformation of the tubular body when the tubular body is subjected to axial tension, the axial strengthening means being adapted to exert a radially inward force on at least part of the tubular body when axial strengthening means is subjected to axial tension. The hose can have length above 30 m and a diameter above 400 mm. A method of, and apparatus for, making the hose are also described, which involves the use of a non-metallic mandrel.