Muses
These extraordinarily talented dancers are dedicated students and emerging professionals from all over the world who choose to train and perform in Gaynor Minden pointe shoes exclusively.
Rachel Armstrong
Northern Dance Company
Northumberland, United Kingdom
“I started wearing Gaynor Minden when I was 13 years old and feel like they are the best pointe shoes for my feet. I always feel confident, supported and comfortable to push out of my comfort zone when wearing my Gaynor’s. I love that Gaynor Minden pointe shoes allow me to create beautiful lines with my feet which almost feels and looks like an extension of my legs rather than just shoes.”
“I started wearing Gaynor Minden when I was 13 years old and feel like they are the best pointe shoes for my feet. I always feel confident, supported and comfortable to push out of my comfort zone when wearing my Gaynor’s. I love that Gaynor Minden pointe shoes allow me to create beautiful lines with my feet which almost feels and looks like an extension of my legs rather than just shoes.”
Meredith Barajas
North County Academy of Dance
San Diego, CA
“I chose Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because they give me a lot of comfort and security. They allow me to turn, jump and do all my movements in a light and comfortable way. They help me feel safe, since no other ones give me everything I need, and I appreciate that they have accompanied me throughout the process that I have carried out with the entire Gaynor Minden line!”
“I chose Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because they give me a lot of comfort and security. They allow me to turn, jump and do all my movements in a light and comfortable way. They help me feel safe, since no other ones give me everything I need, and I appreciate that they have accompanied me throughout the process that I have carried out with the entire Gaynor Minden line!”
Sofia Ortega Bravo
Ballet Prover
Cordoba, Veracruz, Mexico
“I chose Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because they are really special and of good quality. They are so delicate and yet very durable! I love them because they are very comfortable. They lengthen the leg line very nicely. Gaynor Mindens make my movements more controlled and cleaner and landings are safe and noiseless. I share my love for ballet with Gaynor Minden! I adore them!”
“I chose Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because they are really special and of good quality. They are so delicate and yet very durable! I love them because they are very comfortable. They lengthen the leg line very nicely. Gaynor Mindens make my movements more controlled and cleaner and landings are safe and noiseless. I share my love for ballet with Gaynor Minden! I adore them!”
Giulia Cacciatori
Wiener Staatsoper Junior Company
Vienna, Austria
“I started wearing Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because I wanted a pointe shoe that would adapt to my foot. I was tired of trying to fit in some pointe shoes that weren’t right for my feet. As soon as I discovered Gaynor Minden pointe shoes my “ballet life” changed completely: I could balance more, jumping like if I was in soft shoes, turning very easily and last but not least I could do hours of rehearsal without feeling any pain which is one of the most important things. The only thing I regret is not having tried them before!”
“I started wearing Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because I wanted a pointe shoe that would adapt to my foot. I was tired of trying to fit in some pointe shoes that weren’t right for my feet. As soon as I discovered Gaynor Minden pointe shoes my “ballet life” changed completely: I could balance more, jumping like if I was in soft shoes, turning very easily and last but not least I could do hours of rehearsal without feeling any pain which is one of the most important things. The only thing I regret is not having tried them before!”
Olimpia Georgia Carauleanu
The Rock School for Dance Education
Constanta, Romania
“Ballet has been a part of my life since I was five years old. But the moment I started dancing on pointe, my passion reached new heights! Gaynor Minden pointe shoes have been my trusted companions ever since. These shoes are simply magical. They make me feel comfortable, supported, and confident. They are like an extension of my feet! These are the only pointe shoes I wear and trust. I love Gaynor Minden with all my heart!”
“Ballet has been a part of my life since I was five years old. But the moment I started dancing on pointe, my passion reached new heights! Gaynor Minden pointe shoes have been my trusted companions ever since. These shoes are simply magical. They make me feel comfortable, supported, and confident. They are like an extension of my feet! These are the only pointe shoes I wear and trust. I love Gaynor Minden with all my heart!”
Katie Cerny
Philadelphia Ballet II
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
“Why I love my Gaynors- Gaynor Minden is my go-to companion for stage, class, and training. Gaynors provide strength and flexibility while offering support and comfort. The fact that they last so long is incredibly beneficial for a busy ballerina on-the-go. I love my Gaynor pointe shoes and all their other products!”
“Why I love my Gaynors- Gaynor Minden is my go-to companion for stage, class, and training. Gaynors provide strength and flexibility while offering support and comfort. The fact that they last so long is incredibly beneficial for a busy ballerina on-the-go. I love my Gaynor pointe shoes and all their other products!”
Angelina DeCarlo
Beyond the Barre
Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
“I choose to wear Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because they are the only type of pointe shoes that can really support my arch. It has been so hard for me, since I was a child, doing all the exercises on pointe and it was truly frustrating. Then in 2016, I tried Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because they were becoming so popular, and it seemed a bit like a revolution especially for me that I was used to Russian pointe shoes. Well from that moment I never changed them, I just think there’s nothing else that could fit me and help me like Gaynor Minden pointe shoes. I was finally able to do all the variations that I wanted to. That’s why I’m so happy to be part of this family because I have a special connection with these pointe shoes.”
“I choose to wear Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because they are the only type of pointe shoes that can really support my arch. It has been so hard for me, since I was a child, doing all the exercises on pointe and it was truly frustrating. Then in 2016, I tried Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because they were becoming so popular, and it seemed a bit like a revolution especially for me that I was used to Russian pointe shoes. Well from that moment I never changed them, I just think there’s nothing else that could fit me and help me like Gaynor Minden pointe shoes. I was finally able to do all the variations that I wanted to. That’s why I’m so happy to be part of this family because I have a special connection with these pointe shoes.”
Sofiia Hurieva
Norwegian National Ballet School
Oslo, Norway
“I choose Gaynor Minden because their pointe shoes are a fusion of innovation, comfort, and artistry. Their commitment to dancer well-being through advanced technology aligns with my goals, allowing me to dance en pointe comfortably and focus on artistry. Their eco-friendly approach also resonates with my values. Being a Gaynor Minden Muse means more than wearing exceptional pointe shoes; it’s joining a community that values dancers and strives for excellence.”
“I choose Gaynor Minden because their pointe shoes are a fusion of innovation, comfort, and artistry. Their commitment to dancer well-being through advanced technology aligns with my goals, allowing me to dance en pointe comfortably and focus on artistry. Their eco-friendly approach also resonates with my values. Being a Gaynor Minden Muse means more than wearing exceptional pointe shoes; it’s joining a community that values dancers and strives for excellence.”
Ariadna Lía Ledezma Nieto
Teatro Argentino
Buenos Aires, Argentina
“I have been wearing Gaynor Minden pointe shoes for several months now and they have been a great change. From traditional pointe shoes because they cater to individuals and last a lot longer. I have never felt more comfortable, balanced, and supported in a pair of pointe shoes. Gaynor Minden pointe shoes look like what pointe shoes should look like, without being painful or confining.”
“I have been wearing Gaynor Minden pointe shoes for several months now and they have been a great change. From traditional pointe shoes because they cater to individuals and last a lot longer. I have never felt more comfortable, balanced, and supported in a pair of pointe shoes. Gaynor Minden pointe shoes look like what pointe shoes should look like, without being painful or confining.”
Pasha Levy
Ellison Ballet
New York City, NY, USA
“I can’t say enough how much I love Gaynor Minden pointe shoes. They’ve truly changed my ballet experience. The shoes are unbelievably supportive, allowing me to tackle all my variations and giving me the confidence to feel the best in the studio and onstage. Also, they last so much longer than other brands I’ve tried, saving me money in the long run. The fitters at Gaynor Minden are incredibly caring, helping me find the perfect fit every time. These shoes are a must have!. “
“I can’t say enough how much I love Gaynor Minden pointe shoes. They’ve truly changed my ballet experience. The shoes are unbelievably supportive, allowing me to tackle all my variations and giving me the confidence to feel the best in the studio and onstage. Also, they last so much longer than other brands I’ve tried, saving me money in the long run. The fitters at Gaynor Minden are incredibly caring, helping me find the perfect fit every time. These shoes are a must have!. “
Jingxuan Vivian Li
Hungarian State Opera
Budapest, Hungary
” For me, Gaynor Minden is not just a few pairs of pointe shoes or a brand but also a witness to its existence. Regarding each stage, it exists in every choice I make; my immaturity, giving up, returning, all spent with Gaynor Minden. So many times, it’s like a friend, accompanying me on the path of my life. Looking forward to continuing with GM and maintaining a passion.”
” For me, Gaynor Minden is not just a few pairs of pointe shoes or a brand but also a witness to its existence. Regarding each stage, it exists in every choice I make; my immaturity, giving up, returning, all spent with Gaynor Minden. So many times, it’s like a friend, accompanying me on the path of my life. Looking forward to continuing with GM and maintaining a passion.”
Annabelle McCarthy
John Cranko Schule
Stuttgart, Germany
“I love my Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because they are high quality, comfortable and reliable! They offer great support and last so much longer than other shoes that I have worn previously. Pointe work doesn’t have to be painful due to the innovative design of GM pointe shoes. I’m so excited and grateful to be a GM Muse, and I can’t wait to become friends with the other Muses from all over the world!”
“I love my Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because they are high quality, comfortable and reliable! They offer great support and last so much longer than other shoes that I have worn previously. Pointe work doesn’t have to be painful due to the innovative design of GM pointe shoes. I’m so excited and grateful to be a GM Muse, and I can’t wait to become friends with the other Muses from all over the world!”
Karen Nakagawa
Freelance Dancer
Redondo Beach, CA, USA & Kobe, Japan
To me, Gaynors are not just typical pointe shoes, they’re a part of me. I’ve been wearing Gaynor Minden Pointe Shoes since Middle School (about 12 years) and they have truly supported my ballet journey. They have not only helped strengthen my footwork and technique but helped me to make unforgettable memories at the studio and create magical moments on stage. Without Gaynors, I probably wouldn’t be the dancer I am today nor would I have experienced all the unforgettable moments on stage.”
To me, Gaynors are not just typical pointe shoes, they’re a part of me. I’ve been wearing Gaynor Minden Pointe Shoes since Middle School (about 12 years) and they have truly supported my ballet journey. They have not only helped strengthen my footwork and technique but helped me to make unforgettable memories at the studio and create magical moments on stage. Without Gaynors, I probably wouldn’t be the dancer I am today nor would I have experienced all the unforgettable moments on stage.”
Rio Nakata
Slovak National Ballet
Kagawa, Japan
“Gaynor Mindens are perfectly comfortable because I can customize everything to fit my feet. Best of all, these shoes are extremely long-lasting. These pointe shoes make my feet look their best! And these shoes help me make all my movements smoother and jump higher.”
“Gaynor Mindens are perfectly comfortable because I can customize everything to fit my feet. Best of all, these shoes are extremely long-lasting. These pointe shoes make my feet look their best! And these shoes help me make all my movements smoother and jump higher.”
Maria Rianelli
Conservatorio Brasileiro de Dança
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
“I’ve tried many types and brands of pointe shoes before I started wearing Gaynors. Because I have very high arches, all those other pointe shoes already broke during the first lesson I was using them. Since I wear Gaynor Minden, my pointe shoes last much longer. They help me to improve my technique every day, they help me to challenge myself and offer me support and comfort.”
“I’ve tried many types and brands of pointe shoes before I started wearing Gaynors. Because I have very high arches, all those other pointe shoes already broke during the first lesson I was using them. Since I wear Gaynor Minden, my pointe shoes last much longer. They help me to improve my technique every day, they help me to challenge myself and offer me support and comfort.”
Mana Sasaki
ES Ballet Studio
Hokkaido, Japan
“ゲイナーミンデンを選ぶ理由 私が今までの約8年間ゲイナーミンデンと一緒に踊ってきて感じることは、とにかく快適だということです。ラインもより美しく見えるようにデザインされており、とても丈夫なトゥシューズなので消耗も気にせずに心ゆくまで踊ることができるので私はゲイナーミンデンを選んでいます。
I have been wearing Gaynor Minden pointe shoes for almost 8 years, and what I can say is that they are very comfortable to dance in. The shoes are designed to make my lines look beautiful and are very durable so that I don’t have to worry about them when I dance. I can enjoy dancing as much as I want. This is why I choose Gaynor Minden.”
“ゲイナーミンデンを選ぶ理由 私が今までの約8年間ゲイナーミンデンと一緒に踊ってきて感じることは、とにかく快適だということです。ラインもより美しく見えるようにデザインされており、とても丈夫なトゥシューズなので消耗も気にせずに心ゆくまで踊ることができるので私はゲイナーミンデンを選んでいます。
I have been wearing Gaynor Minden pointe shoes for almost 8 years, and what I can say is that they are very comfortable to dance in. The shoes are designed to make my lines look beautiful and are very durable so that I don’t have to worry about them when I dance. I can enjoy dancing as much as I want. This is why I choose Gaynor Minden.”
Scarlett Schutte
Eborall Melville De Witt Ballet School
Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
“It is the only brand that makes me feel stable and secure when dancing. They make my feet look beautiful! I have been wearing them for years, so why fiddle with a recipe that works! “
PC@opticalnoise_robertharris
“It is the only brand that makes me feel stable and secure when dancing. They make my feet look beautiful! I have been wearing them for years, so why fiddle with a recipe that works! “
PC@opticalnoise_robertharris
Soraya Sullivan
Kim Harvey School of Dance
Canberra, ACT, Australia
“I’m so happy to have found Gaynor Minden Pointe shoes. After trying and wearing many other brands and styles, I feel that I have finally found a pointe shoe that is perfect for me. As someone who has hyper-mobile arches, it has been always been a struggle to find shoes that support my feet well. To have finally found a shoe that not only supports my feet, looks good and also helps me perform at my best has been such a relief. They are also lasting longer than any other pointe shoes I have worn. After discovering Gaynor Minden pointe shoes, I feel like I cannot go back to any other brand.”
“I’m so happy to have found Gaynor Minden Pointe shoes. After trying and wearing many other brands and styles, I feel that I have finally found a pointe shoe that is perfect for me. As someone who has hyper-mobile arches, it has been always been a struggle to find shoes that support my feet well. To have finally found a shoe that not only supports my feet, looks good and also helps me perform at my best has been such a relief. They are also lasting longer than any other pointe shoes I have worn. After discovering Gaynor Minden pointe shoes, I feel like I cannot go back to any other brand.”
Olivia Tamayo
ABT William J. Gillespie Dance School
Temecula, California. USA
“I choose to wear Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because they are absolutely perfect for my bendy feet! They provide a nice support and comfort whilst allowing me to balance and freely move through my dancing.”
“I choose to wear Gaynor Minden pointe shoes because they are absolutely perfect for my bendy feet! They provide a nice support and comfort whilst allowing me to balance and freely move through my dancing.”
Ana Zamora
Ballet Jorgen
Toronto, Canada
“When you’re a ballet dancer, you have those revelatory moments that completely change you, and for me, the first time I tried Gaynor Minden pointe shoes was one of them. I was 15 years old and studying at the National Ballet School of Cuba. Unfortunately, in Cuba, we didn’t have much access to pointe shoe brands. But I had the opportunity to buy my first Gaynors, and my career changed forever. I felt a boost of confidence and lightness like never before. I would describe Gaynor Minden as comfort meets elegance. Thank you, Gaynor, for supporting me for so many years!”
“When you’re a ballet dancer, you have those revelatory moments that completely change you, and for me, the first time I tried Gaynor Minden pointe shoes was one of them. I was 15 years old and studying at the National Ballet School of Cuba. Unfortunately, in Cuba, we didn’t have much access to pointe shoe brands. But I had the opportunity to buy my first Gaynors, and my career changed forever. I felt a boost of confidence and lightness like never before. I would describe Gaynor Minden as comfort meets elegance. Thank you, Gaynor, for supporting me for so many years!”
Karolina Zarach
Jersey City Ballet Company
Brooklyn, New York, USA
“In my nearly two decades of experience in ballet, from training at Ogólnokształcąca Szkoła Baletowa in Gdansk, Poland, to professional roles around the world, I’ve worn many types of pointe shoes. However, Gaynor Minden stands out for their support, comfort, and longevity. Whether performing as a soloist in Czechia or on stages in Japan or New York, these shoes allow me to focus on my artistic expression. Their durability is amazing, making them a reliable choice in my demanding career.”
“In my nearly two decades of experience in ballet, from training at Ogólnokształcąca Szkoła Baletowa in Gdansk, Poland, to professional roles around the world, I’ve worn many types of pointe shoes. However, Gaynor Minden stands out for their support, comfort, and longevity. Whether performing as a soloist in Czechia or on stages in Japan or New York, these shoes allow me to focus on my artistic expression. Their durability is amazing, making them a reliable choice in my demanding career.”
