Ionic liquids (ILs) are organic salts that are liquid at ambient temperatures. ILs are considered a versatile class of chemicals because their properties can be easily tailored for specific applications. Due to their negligible vapor pressure, non-flammability, and thermal stability in the temperature range for preparation and processing of elastomeric composites, ILs are being used increasingly in the field of elastomer science and technology. In this review, the advantages of ILs as functional additives for elastomeric composites are discussed, with special emphasis on their use as dispersing agents for fillers, components of conducting rubber composites, crosslinkers or components of crosslinking systems.