WHEN I'm pleased with a purchase I tell my mates and make sure the shop knows I'm a happy customer.

Terry Salter bought a pair of Draggin Jeans, the Australian-made protective trousers, and was so pleased he took the opportunity to become the European distributor.

Having worn a pair I understand his faith in the product. They are light, comfortable and offer a high standard of protection to abrasion.

From the outside they look like ordinary denim jeans or jackets, but a Kevlar lining at the major crash points allows the wearer to slide along the road without experiencing road rash.

To prove that, a promotional DVD shows stuntmen wearing Draggin Jeans clothing being towed behind a variety of vehicles, including a drag car at more than 80mph, without experiencing a scratch.

Kevlar is what makes military and police body armour so effective. Pound for pound the man-made fibre is five times stronger than steel, flame resistant up to 400C and exceptionally resistant to cutting.

Being the curious type I set about the Kevlar in my jeans with a knife - no effect either stabbing or cutting.

In the kitchen we have a pair of Kevlar oven gloves. We've handled smoking hot baking trays without feeling the heat.

So I'll happily accept the claims without going to the extent of being dragged down the road.

The idea behind Draggin Jeans products is simple: casual clothing that protects male and female bikers.

Realising that not everyone wants to dress in denim, they make chinos, cammo trousers, a range of different-fit jeans including a water repellent option and cargo trousers with either zip off or "normal" legs.

Different colours are available and special sizes can be ordered.

To complement the trousers a selection of denim jackets or a very stylish lightweight casual jacket are offered.

Or how about a sweatshirt made from Kevlar?

All garments provide a high standard of protection that can be increased with the addition of CE- approved armour.

I'd wondered about the feel of Kevlar next to my skin - to be honest even wearing polyester makes my skin crawl - but it was unnoticeable.

The reason is that the Kevlar lining is knitted, rather than woven, which produces a soft lightweight protective layer without bulk.

This process also allows the garments to breathe, an absolute must in the Australian heat.

I found riding in Draggin Jeans great. The trousers didn't bunch and felt comfy straight out the bag, washing them will only increase the comfort.

Which brings me to the "care for the garment" section; they are fully machine washable and require no special treatment.

Wearing them it's obvious they have been designed by a biker; little touches like the extra belt loop at the back to prevent clothing separation, make all the difference.

Too hot for leathers, walking round town and not wanting to look like a stormtrooper, or going into work without the bother of carting the casual stuff are all reasons for getting on the bike in soft clothing.

Many youngsters don't like to wear safety clothing as it's not the look; the look is often preferred to protecting their skin.

So having a selection of ordinary looking clothes that will, quite literally, save your hide in a spill is a great advantage.

For the comprehensive catalogue and enquiries call 0800 0859 020 or visit www.dragginjeans.co.uk