I partially agree with Scott - not bashing you 'bro but I think that there are a few shops out there that folks don't fully understand if they come from a wakeboarding background. On this topic I need to do a HUGE caveat. I consider Mike a friend, I've known him for ages, from before he got married and I'm looking forward to the announcement of his first child any day here!
James has been a team rider (which means we got a $50 discount per board purchased) for Mike and I probably have the largest collection of TWP's short of a rep. Mike contributes generously to virtually all of the contests that I am involved with in any capacity.
Mike is primarily a custom shop. He has two stock sizes - the Composite X line, but the rest, such as: UFO, F18, Bullet, etc are custom. This as opposed to someone like say Shred Stixx which has MOSTLY stock shapes but can make a custom order for folks, too. The majority of folks are accustomed to stock shapes only, like when buying a wakeboard.
I think the stock shapes that Mike offers are probably plenty sturdy for most applications.
For shops like Props, ASC, TWP, etc...they truly shine when it comes to a custom order. This is where I am partially in agreement with Scott. Custom orders really require that you know what you want and that isn't the area for beginners. All of those shapers are willing to work with you and make recommendations, but the more familiar you are with what you like, the better suited to you the final product will be.
The fragile question is easily addressed in a custom order - have several layers of carbon and kevlar and it'll be virtually bullet proof. Or you could ask for the board to be glassed light for contest purposes and you can break it!
IMO the stock shapes are good boards, the 4.5 is probably a better performer for most folks below 180 and the 5.0 is a good board for folks above that - or newb's wanting some stability.
James on an older TWP Bullet, PuPe, 4 x 4/4, Futures boxes.