An apparatus and method are disclosed for protecting an outer layer of a flexible pipe. The apparatus includes a protective sleeve body comprising a first end region and a further end region. At least one connector element is also provided which is securable to the first end region of the sleeve body for securing the sleeve body with respect to a flexible pipe located proximate to a wear hazard. The sleeve body is securable uncovered over a portion of an outer sheath of the flexible pipe between the outer sheath and the wear hazard to provide a protected portion of flexible pipe having a bending stiffness substantially equal to a bending stiffness of a remaining portion of the flexible pipe which is uncovered by the sleeve body.