Components that include catalyst layers used in membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs), and methods of making such components are described. The catalyst layers yield more uniform current distributions across the active area of the MEA during operation. The catalyst layers may have a uniform catalyst activity profile of a less active catalyst to achieve more uniform current density over the MEA active area. The catalyst layers may have a variable activity profile, such as an activity profile with a varying slope, to compensate for the inherent nonlinearities of catalyst utilization during operation of an electrochemical fuel cell. Desired variable catalyst activity profiles may be achieved, for example, by varying the catalyst loading across the MEA from inlet to outlet ports or by varying the surface area of the catalyst loading or by varying the surface area of the catalyst support elements.