Shear thickening compositions can function in an energy or communications transmission cable to provide enhanced protection against externally applied forces, e.g., cutting or puncture from a shovel. As a free or bound layer, or when used via impregnation into a substrate used for an internal component or wrap, the shear thickening composition provides protection against mechanical damage that far surpasses conventional technologies. In foamable compositions for cable components, the shear thickening composition provides enhanced integrity of the polymer melt for enhanced foam performance. As a flame retardant component, the shear thickening composition provides an enhanced char formation mechanism for superior flame retardance.