Another reason for smaller rims is weight. Often the same size combo of tires and wheels with 15" wheels is lighter than with larger wheels. Makes sense if you think about it. Metal is heaviest, and the larger wheels need more metal due to the greater circumference. Also, a lot of the wheel weight is near the outer edge of the rim, which is closer to the center on a smaller rim, so less rolling inertia (less strain on brakes and acceleration), even if the weight was the same. Yet another benefit is a large amount of rubber sidewall to flex when off-road (at the sacrifice of on-road stiffness)
I'll admit it though, what finally sold me was the look. I much prefer the deep dish, small rim and lots of big tire rubber over the pimp'ish dubs and rubber band tires.

Also, while steelies fit well, so do many aluminums, which help weight-wise, but are more likely to crack than bend in an impact. Everything is a trade off.

So there are some technical advantages to a smaller rim, but it's mainly personal preference, as long as you don't go extremely big.

 

I dont know man, Seems thats its the style these days hahah

 

poor thing

 

Ouch! That hurt my eyes!
Cruel and unusual punishment... for the Jeep and anyone nearby.

 

i know. I felt for it the second i saw that picture....

 

that just does not look right. I didn't like looking at it, but I couldn't my eyes off of it for a min. Looks all wrong

 

I wanted to stay away from the homie look, thus the 15's.....