Not only am I a SK, but also a armorer, so I got a chance to compare the tower shields and kite shields side by side. I chose to make myself a kite shield. The rationale was that the protection rating was the same, but the kite shield as a +INT stat. Now this is the crafted items, not so sure about the treasured items. I do know that at T7, I have not found a shield (yet) that I think is better than the imbuded xegonite kite shield. When I say better, I mean one that I am willing to pay for, or one that I am willing to choose over the other options available as a reward. I am currently happy with my choice, but I do have to admit, I am always on the look out for something better.In my opinion (others my disagree), at your level, I would pick up whatever you can afford right now, I would not worry so much about the kite vs tower. I would keep a look out for upgrades as you level, and if you end up a with a rare ore, consider getting your local friendly armorer to make you a rare imbued shield.Hope this helps.