Abstract: In one embodiment, a multi-stage energy absorbing system can comprise: a base; and an energy absorber comprising elements, wherein the energy absorber elements comprise a pair of outer sidewalls having a narrow section with a narrow section angle and a wide section with a wide section angle, wherein the narrow section and the wide section are connected by a diverging section with a diverging section angle, wherein the diverging section angle is less than 90°; a connecting wall between the outer sidewalls; a pair of inner sidewalls; and an inner connecting wall, wherein the energy absorbing elements are in a nested arrangement creating an open area between adjacent sidewalls and adjacent connecting walls.