Comfort, Quiet and Durability. Gaynor Minden pointe shoes combine thoughtful design, expert American hand craftsmanship, and innovative modern materials. Buoyant Support. Consistent Support. Gaynor Minden uses high quality elastomerics for its unbreakable shanks and boxes, not the paste and cardboard construction that makes other pointe shoes quickly deteriorate while tormenting the feet. The flexibility and support that you feel in the new shoe will remain the same throughout its long life. Gaynor Mindens have tremendous durability without being hard or clunky. The shoes last 3 to 6 times as long as most other brands.