Originally Posted by
Drew Eckhardt
They're arguably better but less sexy.
Most of the boutique hub vendors (Phil Wood is an exception) don't invest in the coining dies that Campagnolo and Shimano use. Cup-and-cone bearings last a very long time when kept lubricated and it's easier to adjust one that's getting worn than it is to replace pressed-in cartridge bearings.
They cost less.
And they come in fewer colors and drillings. Campagnolo is even worse than Shimano here with their hubs only available in black with 32 holes.
I've ony seen Phil Wood hubs on dedicated track wheels. Never even realized they make road wheels until your post. I'll review but likely will be out of my price range, since I expect they will be priced on par or higher than White and Chris King.
Dura ace/Ultegra are good enough for me.