various embodiments of a spiral shaped element and embedded wavy materials are disclosed for use in a shock mitigating material to dissipate the energy associated with the impact of an object . the shock mitigating material can be used in helmets , bumpers , bullet proof vests , military armor , and other applications . one embodiment , among others , is a shock mitigating material having a plurality of spiral shaped elements , each having a circular cross section , and each being tapered from a large outside end to a small inside end but also having an embedded wavy material that can induce shear waves to mitigate the shock pressure and impulse .