Provided herein are novel layered elastomeric connectors, housings therefor and methods of manufacture for the connectors which includes alternating fused layers of a dielectric elastomer and electrically conductive fibrous mats coextensive with a cross section of the conductor to provide a multiplicity of conductive pathways between two electrically conductive surfaces. In order to promote a more mechanically stable connector, the fibrous mats can be exposed to a coupling agent for enhanced bonding. To enhance the electrical characteristics, the fibrous mats can be electroplated with an electrically conductive metal.