Race Wheels

That's a loaded question!!  You don't mention what your current wheels (or bike for that matter) are...  Yes, wheels can easily be swapped out with the quick release.  Clinchers vs tubular is another whole debate---if you are used to clinchers then nothing wrong just staying with them.  Skewer, hub and cassette are all things that you already have on your wheels....the skewer can be used with other wheels, the hub will be laced to the wheel and the cassette can be moved from wheel to wheel (with a little more work then just a quick release...).

As a just thow it out there good race wheel---start with zipps, Hed, flashpoint to get started........

I was in a similar situation, wanted clincher race wheels.  I wound up buying a Renn 575 disk rear and a Hed3 front.  I bought both used and was very patient to find great prices on both.  Total, I spent less than $800.  Retail, they would've been $1300ish.  I bought one on slowtwitch and one on craigslist.  If you're willing to be patient and search out the deals, it an be done.

Also, I LOVE my wheels!

Cassette - Unless you want to be swapping the cassette back and forth (your rear gears) You should look at getting a second similar cassette (9 or 10 spd whatever is on the bike already) Just more of a hassle when trying to swap the wheels.Skewer - Quick release help for quick changing of wheels Clincher vs Tubular - Personal preference really. Tubular can be lighter as most do not have the aluminum rim. Tougher to learn how to change a tire at first from what I have seen, need to stretch tire before hand. You can ride a flat on a tubular much longer without causing nearly the damage you would on a clincher. Clincher - most bikes have this style initially, weigh a bit more, but weight is not everything. Tube and tire, pretty easy to change.Brands - there are tons out there, Zipp and HED are two big names, Zipp you will pay more for the name than the overall benefit you will get in comparison to some other brands. HED seems to be a good competitor at quite the savings. The deepness of the wheel will allow it to be more aero, but also catch more crosswind and be easier to stall out if you are not a strong biker. IE 50 mm is smaller and may be better for a less experienced biker as compared to a 80mm. You will notice a difference with the different sizes up front especially.Rear disc - can also get most of the benefit by getting a wheel cover, you could pick up a pair of 404s or Jet 60s and get a cover for the rear to make it a bit more aero, but also allow you to take it off if there are strong winds etc.

Guess I should have also mentioned that I use my same cassette for my race wheel and my trainer.  Doesn't take more than 5 minutes to swap out.  I guess I take quick release for granted, IMO its silly not to have quick release...especially when racing.

You can also rent wheels for $140-150.  I'd consider this option as well depending on how much you ride.  You are able to get the newest top of the line model for a couple of A races every year and it would take a few years to approach how much you'd be spending on a set of comparable wheels.

I have a set of what I consider nice wheels (Bontrager Aeolus 5.0), but don't consider them "race" wheels only.  I opted for a set that is known to be more durable but a good overall so I can use them for training rides and for shorter races...until Winter comes and then I'll take them off.

I would still maybe rent a set of Zipps and a disc for a big HIM or IM, but for a shorter race it wouldn't be worth it.

Think about if you are looking to upgrade your everyday wheels, or if you truly want a race specific wheel before jumping in.