The longer churchwarden style of pipes are nice, but they are definately made to smoke when you are sitting down, relaxing. The longer stem does help cool the smoke ... but you have to buy extra long pipe cleaners for maintenance. They are also a bit more expensive. I have an older Kaywoodie churchwarden that I smoke on occasion.
The ones you mention as being ceramic ... are just plain clay pipes (technically ceramic, but not quite as fragile) . These look nice, but the bowls can get very hot while smoking.
One pipe carver that I'd recommend that you check out is Mike Brissett. He makes some unique styles and sells for a very fair price. He can also custom make something to your specs. His website is :
http://my.execpc.com/~maddog92/Pipes/pipes
Also, if you're looking for something nice, but really cheap - try Iwan Ries. They have some good value pipes for $20. Check the Coral and Velani Silver pipes ...
http://iwanries.net/acb/Category.cfm?&DID=7&CATID=30