I've just ordered a LitePro Alu Seat Post from eBay and am considering buying a LitePro Seat Post Protector. Here's the link -
LitePro Seat Post Protector Protecting Sleeve Bamper for Dahon Folding Bike | eBay

My question is will there be a compromise in strength, stability etc. or would this be a totally ok swap out, hence protecting the seat post from scratches, does anyone have this on their bikes, or any experience of the product? Have a Dahon Archer (same as Speed P8)

seems to work

I have 2 Litepro seat posts in my 2 Boardwalks and both of those bikes have a plastic part like than in them from the factory. You may already have the same thing in your bike also. I really like the Litepros which seem to be strong and are a bit longer than the factory posts. Roger

If you are worried about marking your seat post, deburr all the edges of the standard alu shim.

This should not be an issue with the plastic version.

I use both plastic and alu shims without a problem with alu, Ti and carbon seat posts.

I ordered a Crius Smart from Thor and this was the first time I had seen or heard of a plastic seatpost insert. I almost threw it away thinking it was packing material. I now prefer the plastic sleeve over the standard Dahon aluminium sleeve because 1) it protects the seatpost from scratches 2) it never slips. I've since ordered another for my Dahon Curve and works like a charm.

Both of my seatposts are LitePro as are the inserts, if it makes any difference.

what brand is Litepro? I can't even find their website

Put LitePro in an Ebay search and you will find their product. At least that is where I have bought the LitePro parts I own. Roger

too many results, is it a real brand? looks everyone is selling it, sellers from China, HK, Singapore, USA etc.

I have 3 bikes with these large aluminum seatposts with aluminum shims. All of them eventually have shown some wear. I think the wear is more from abrasive debris that gets between the seatpost and the shim, and none of my shims has any rough edges. I don't worry about the wear, as it isn't terribly apparent and doesn't interfere with function. The plastic shim ("bamper"?? ) seems like it would help keep the seatpost less worn, because debris particles would (I think) tend to be pressed into the softer plastic than the metal seatpost.
Steve

Xavierz yes Lite Pro is real brand but I do not know how common it is in stores if at all in stores. I have always found it easier to find, cheaper and easier to buy on E-Bay. I usually refine my search to USA and "lowest price with shipping" first and then go from there. If there is a vendor I have used before they get first choice. Welcome 2018. Roger

Available at Ali Express

Well in the end ordered the plastic shim (bamper) from eBay for few pennies less than £4, so can't go wrong! now await shipping from China...............

Thanks to all for your feedback by the way, really useful for the initiated

sorry again uninitiated!!!