Collection: Gaynor Minden New York

At relevé dance collective, we are committed to offering our dancers the best shoes for their pointe work, and we’re excited to introduce Gaynor Minden pointe shoes to our newly appointed Pointe Shoe Collective! This innovative brand has been a game-changer in the world of ballet footwear, combining modern technology with classic craftsmanship to create a pointe shoe that provides lasting comfort, durability, and support for dancers everywhere.

A History of Innovation and Craftsmanship

Founded in 1993 in New York City by John and Eliza Minden, Gaynor Minden revolutionised the pointe shoe industry with its groundbreaking design. After years of research and development, Eliza Minden created the first successful modernisation of the iconic ballet shoe. Gaynor Minden's patented pointe shoes were unlike anything the ballet world had seen before, featuring a unique internal structure designed to meet the demands of serious dancers.

Today, Gaynor Minden remains committed to that original vision, offering an expanded range of pointe shoes that combine tradition and innovation. While their production moved from the U.S. to Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2020, the quality and attention to detail remain exceptional, with all shoes still handmade using expert European craftsmanship and the same American-made high-tech internal components.

Unmatched Durability and Comfort

One of the standout features of Gaynor Minden pointe shoes is their durability. Unlike traditional pointe shoes that are made with paste and cardboard, Gaynor Minden shoes feature flexible, molded inserts made from a synthetic material known for its extraordinary strength and resilience. These innovative materials ensure that the shoes last 3-5 times longer than their counterparts, enduring hundreds of thousands of relevés without any weakening or deformation of the shank or toe box.

Thanks to the advanced Poron® Performance Cushioning, these pointe shoes provide exceptional comfort. Poron is a microcellular urethane foam that absorbs significant impact, even when it’s only 1/16" to 1/8" thick. Unlike cheap latex or EVA foams, Poron doesn't "bottom out," so you’ll enjoy consistent support throughout the life of the shoe.

In addition to providing shock absorption, Poron is strategically placed in different areas of the shoe to reduce noise (perfect for those jumps!) and increase overall comfort. The cushioning is also moisture-wicking, ensuring that your feet stay dry during long rehearsals and performances.

Customisation to Suit Every Dancer

At relevé dance collective, we understand that every dancer’s needs are unique, and Gaynor Minden offers extensive customisation options. Stock shoes come in full sizes, half sizes, three widths, five box shapes, and five stiffness options. In addition to the stock options, Gaynor Minden also offers special orders for further adjustments, including extra shank reinforcement, custom satin finishes, suede platforms, and more.