Harness---I don't think there is any such thing as 'all-patent' harness; today's patent is a synthetic, and not strong or lasting enough to be the single element out of which a harness is made. Lutke's harness is patent over biothane. For ease of care and 'fancy' looks, as well as being well-constructed, it is hard to beat for miniature horse show harness, but pretty pricey for many people.I have had two Lutkes-they are very pretty, and relatively easy to care for(brass fittings are ALWAYS more work than chrome/stainless, BTW), but also relatively'stiff'. I would never use one for 'everyday', as they are strictly for the level show ring. Rolled looks 'finer', but might present problems in use, as it IS stitched(to 'roll' it)and stitching can come loose-in leather, it is a bit harder to clean, IMO(I have had 'rolled' Western gear, not rolled harness). You also need to keep in mind the horse's comfort, in wearing the harness and having to pull weight using it!
Show carts---Jerald is hard to beat, in the genre-though I imagine that Houghton is quite comparable. I have owned three different kinds of Jeralds-the 'original', closed arch, which has a narrower wheel base, and is a bit more versatile, as it can be used in both A and R roadster classes(and I believe, a bit less expensive,and a bit lighter in weight?)than the 'open wheel'/open axle type, on which you can have either pneumatic OR wooden wheels. Wooden wheels will ALWAYS be heavier, BTW. Graber makes smaller carts; the ones I've seen are perfectly adequate, but indeed, do not show the 'finish' of the Jeralds and Houghtons. I have heard all of the same comments about Superior-just no service anymore-and would not even 'go' there. There is also the option of Road Carts; they are basically wooden, and a bit heavier, though not extremely so, than the 'fine harness' carts(which is what the Jeralds and Houghtons,and most of the Grabers basically are; you will not see them much of anywhere but in the breed show rings- NOT in open driving showing, nor ADS, hardly ever ,IF ever-at least, not in the style you see mostly in the mini show ring.) If you are going to show in Country Pleasure, one of these would be quite acceptable--and likely, more suitable for everyday driving. Pequea, in PA, is one VERY good maker, and reasonable in price--the price of the 'fine harness' carts seems to be continuously escalating!!
I don't consider the Jeralds especially heavy, but the open axle ones are unwieldy to handle, and especially difficult to get into a tack room unless it has a really wide door!! I REALLY like any cart that can be wheeled into a storage area EASILY!!
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Good luck in your 'shopping'!
Margo
