makes it easier for you, is better for your saddle and is easier on your horse's back. If your horse is tall and your legs shorter you can drop the stirrup a few holes so that you can reach it with your toe or you can use a stirrup extender . Don't forget to re-adjust it to proper length once mounted. It is traditional to mount a horse from the near side. But you should be able to mount from the off side as well.
