Barrel Racing is common at rodeos and gymkhana events and there are many different levels and kinds of barrel horses. At the top level are professional barrel horses that compete in 1D events such as the National Finals Rodeo, then there are barrel horses who compete in 2D/3D events, finished barrel horses, and barrel prospects who have breeding or potential to become good barrel racers.

Some of the most common breeds of horses that used in barrel racing include Quarter Horses, Paint Horses, Thoroughbreds and Appaloosas.