[HairOfTheDog]

Better to grab the mane if you're going to be grabbing.

I agree, especially mounting. The mane is going where the horse is.... the saddle may not ;~D

[CindyDawg]

I was taught not to hold any part of the saddle mounting. I hold the mane and put my hand flat on the seat. I hardly use the horn. Maybe just a few times if I felt off balance. I just wrap my lead road around it. All I have found that it is good for is ripping my shirts :')