As with most things relating to bikes, the "lighter" usually means more expensive and less durable. I understand why "Pro" riders chose the lightest wheels they can find. A spare wheel is riding behind them on the team car.

For people that do not race, getting from A to B non-stop is usually of more value that getting half-way, but at record speed. Most of my road bikes have traditional wheels, with 36 spokes on the rear wheel, and one has 40 spokes on the rear wheel. Although I weigh about 50% more than most bike riders (they are too light - my weight is correct) I have broken one spoke in my life. I do pass a lot of folks who are at the side of the rode, trying to figure out what is wrong with their ultra-light wheels. They aren't fast when they are being repaired.

Some of the new designs seem to make spoke count less relevant. I wish there was a "Consumer Reports" mentality at some bike magazine to test some of the newer designs. Some of them seem to be very strong, and some less so. It would be helpful to see some objective data on wheel strength and durability.