Abstract: An improved cushioning element for placement between an impacting surface and a surface of an object to be cushioned against damage caused by impact during transport or storage, comprising: a foamed polymeric laminate comprising a first cushioning layer of a first polymeric foam material having a first density adhered directly to a second cushioning layer of a second polymeric foam material having a different, second density; a first planar, rigid, backing adhered to and in contact with one surface of said foamed polymeric laminate and a second planar, rigid, backing adhered to and in contact with a surface of said foamed polymeric laminate opposite said one surface, said one surface and opposite surface being parallel to each other, and said first and second polymeric foam materials being adhered in a plane substantially parallel to said one and opposite surfaces.