An annular elastomeric packer for a blowout preventer includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced inserts, wherein at least one of the plurality of inserts includes an upper flange extending between a radially inner end and a radially outer end, a lower flange extending between a radially inner end and a radially outer end, and a rib extending between the upper flange and the lower flange, wherein the upper flange includes an upper surface disposed at an acute angle relative a longitudinal axis of the elastomeric packer, and an elastomeric body coupled to the plurality of inserts and including an inner sealing surface.