Honestly, when was the last time you jumped or hurdled yourself over things taller than you are? I'm just saying if you want to use the realism argument, then try to factor in the fact that our characters will be wearing heavy armor and/or carrying heavy gear. Vaulting yourself six feet into the air while wearing a full metal suit of armor and a heavy harpoon just looks... Stupid. :I
(Unless of course you're a Dragoon.)
(Unless of course you're a Dragoon.)