I'm sure this topic has been covered before but to save searching the entire site I thought I'd get my own answer to it (plus I'm a newbie so I might get away with this).

I'm building a new road bike - the first one that's not just a cheapie from halfords. I've pretty much settled on everything now with the exception of the wheels.

I can't decide which profile (and therefore which wheel) to go for. Having read many blogs about aero benefits vs weight benefits through to people that say it makes no difference so go for the coolest one (I hope that's true).

I will be mostly doing road training / marathon cycling - no real racing, although I'd like the ability to go as quickly as possible with the least effort. I live in the Peaks (UK) so alot of hills. I like the idea of a high profile wheel cos they look cool - but I'm open to whatever. I know camp do a "shamal" mid profile that seems to cover all bases - but it's not carbon - should I be put off by this?

Thanks,
Matt.