Steve Neago wrote a nice summary of conventional wisdom - which doesn't seem to have been tested:
"Three-cross lacing is the best way to go for people over 200 lbs. (including me). It distributes the weigh more efficiently among the spoke tensions. However, some people consider three-cross a trade-off. By using a three-cross pattern, a longer spoke must be used which results in a heavier wheel and one that tends to flex more. Low-flange hubs allow more flex with longer spokes than high-flange hubs with shorter spokes. This is great for long-distance rides which may allow a more comfortable ride, but the track riders are generally looking for a high flange 28H two-cross pattern wheel with high-tension spokes to allow maximum power transmission for a quick start." <snip> The bottom line is that the style lacing for wheel and spokes used depends on what type of riding you are seeking to do. I hope this Email helps..."
Jim Papadopoulos did some work two decades ago that strongly suggested you can do what you please on spoke pattern and (by extension) flange height: it is, if I recall correctly, more fashion than function. If I recall the work correctly, the difference between radial and 4x was essentially undetectable riding -- comparable to a pump stroke or two's difference in tire pressure. For my classic efforts I try to use 3x on lf hubs, but mix some 3x and some 4x on high flange - depends on what's in the spoke bin that day, since both were common patterns.
Harvey Sachs
mcLean VA