Do I need nordic skis with metal edges?
Skiers who spend most of their time on flat or rolling terrain definitely do not need them. The metal digs into hard snow and ice only when the ski is tilted on edge, which occurs naturally when excuting a turn or while side-stepping or using the herring bone technique to ascend steep sections. Certain light and most rugged touring skis possess metal edges, because benefit outweighs cost (read: steel edges add weight and they require periodic maintenance) in the terrain that these skis frequent. When stepping down, over and back up an exposed streambed on an ungroomed trail, metal edges make the task easier. Anyone interested in carving turns or descending steeper trails is likely interested in a ski with metal edges because of the control afforded. Considering the terrain youre apt to ski will often make this decision for you.
