An elastomer barrier composition comprises a melt blend of syndiotactic 1,2-polybutadiene, a terpolymer of ethylene, vinyl acetate and vinyl alcohol, and a compatibilizing agent. The melt blend is formed under suitable mixing and shear conditions such that the terpolymer exists as a separate domain in generally a flat or plate-like form. The elastomer barrier material can be utilized in rubber compositions such as in the innerliner of the tire.