A mechanical heart valve (11) having one or more leaflets (17) pivotally fitted in a substantially cylindrical shaped valve body (19) formed from a resiliently deformable material. A stiffening member (25) formed from substantially nonresilient material fit about the valve body exterior wall to provide structural integrity to the valve body (19). Stresses which are normally applied to the heart valve body during the opening and closing of the valve are absorbed or cushioned by the incorporation of a rubber-like body (26) between the stiffening member (25) and the retainer member (33). Further cushioning is provided by incorporating another rubber-like body (28) in the sewing ring (13). This second body extends out from the exterior surface of the valve body. Finally, a length of fabric (15) is positioned about the retainer (33) and shock absorbing bodies (26). This design provides a precisely calibrated rotational torque which allows for optimum orientation of the leaflets by the implanting surgeon.