The seat of a jumping saddle is shallow so the rider can assume a jumping position when the horse jumps hurdles. The jumping saddle has shorter flaps which are angled forward. Shorter flaps, a shallow seat and a shorter stirrup length all work in unison to assist the rider with the transition to a jumping position rather quickly and effortlessly.

Dressage and jumping saddles have a common feature; knee rolls. For riders that are new to jumping it is recommended that knee rolls be used to add extra grip and reassurance. Using knee rolls will compensate for balancing errors but cannot prevent the inevitable spill.