Electrodes having three dimensional current collectors provide stability to the electrode structure, improved contact between active material and the current collector, and improved charge transfer. An electrode includes a three dimensional current collector including a substantially planar base and spring-like structures extending from the substantially planar base in spaced relation along the substantially planar base. Each spring-like structure has an attachment end attached to the substantially planar base and a free distal end. Active material is layered on the three dimensional current collector, the active material filled between the spring-like structures. The active material comprises alloying particles having a high specific capacity, wherein the spring-like structures deflect as the alloying particles expand in volume due to lithiation and return to an initial position as the alloying particles contract due to delithiation.