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Michael Gascon grew up in the world of Paso Finos — the smoothest horses on earth — and his early experiences in the show ring shaped his initial views on saddles. His first saddle, a vintage McClellan given to him by his father, was lightweight and minimalistic — fine for a show horse, but not built for rugged work.
“When I started my colt starting career, I realized how tough it was to stay in that saddle,” Michael recalls. “I thought the pros must have superpowers!”
Discovering the Power of Western Saddles
Everything changed when Michael won his first colt starting competition and brought home a Wade-style Western saddle. With its rough-out leather and sturdy horn, he found it far easier to ride unpredictable or green horses.
“I remember thinking — they’ll never get me out of this thing! But even that saddle had its limits.”
After riding in countless saddles across 18 countries — from Mustangs in the U.S. to stock horses in Australia — Michael began to envision a saddle that offered unmatched stickability, comfort, and confidence.
The Birth of the Keester Holder Saddle
Inspired by a challenging ride in Australia, Michael partnered with a saddle maker to design what would become the MG Saddle: the Keester Holder. This saddle was built specifically for riders who handle trail obstacles, start colts, or simply want to feel secure in the saddle.
Key Features of the Keester Holder:
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High Pommel and High Cantle: Cradles the rider securely in the seat.
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Full Rough-Out Leather: Increases grip and minimizes sliding.
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Cushioned Suede Seat: Adds comfort for long hours in the saddle.
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Thicker Horn Option: For added control and roping capability.
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Weight Range: Around 30–36 lbs depending on horn style.
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Available in 15” and 16” Sizes: For a more fitted, confidence-boosting ride.
“It’s like adding a seatbelt to your horsemanship,” Michael says. “You’re not worried about falling — you’re focused on communicating with your horse.”
The Confidence Boost Riders Need
What sets the Keester Holder apart is how it directly affects the rider’s confidence. Michael noticed a transformation in his students when they switched to the MG Saddle — their horsemanship improved instantly.
“They already had the knowledge. They just needed the confidence to apply it. This saddle gave them that.”
With a secure seat, riders aren’t distracted by fear. Instead, they can think about things like flexing, disengaging, and giving — all essential tools in any horse training program.
Who the MG Saddle Is (and Isn’t) For
If you’re a dressage competitor or a show jumper, the Keester Holder isn’t the saddle for you. But if you:
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Enjoy trail riding
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Tackle obstacle courses
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Work with young or green horses
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Simply want to feel more confident and secure
— then this saddle might be your perfect match.
Final Thoughts: The Saddle That Holds Your Keester
Whether you're a seasoned clinician or just looking to enjoy your trail rides without fear, the MG Saddle – Keester Holder 3000 was built with you in mind. As Michael says:
“If you're out there just trying to stay on your horse’s back and enjoy the ride, get something that's going to help you do that.”
