A lithium metal anode includes a lithium metal layer and a multi-layer polymer coating disposed over the lithium metal layer. The multi-layer polymer coating includes a first outer polymeric crosslinked gel layer positioned for contact with a battery electrolyte and a second inner polymer layer disposed between the lithium metal layer and the first outer polymeric crosslinked gel layer. The first outer polymeric crosslinked gel layer includes a first polymer, a soft segment polymer, and an electrolyte. The second inner polymer layer includes a second polymer. The second inner polymer layer provides mechanical strength and serves as a physical barrier to the lithium metal layer.