Described embodiments are directed toward prosthetic valves having leaflets of a particular shape that improves bending character without requiring a long length valve. In accordance with an embodiment, a prosthetic valve comprises a leaflet frame, a plurality of leaflets that are coupled to the leaflet frame, where each leaflet has a free edge and a base. The base of each leaflet is truncated in which the leaflet in cross section shows a line in an alpha plane onto the leaflet frame.