+1 on the no-wax. I am no purist about that, and as Jolt noted, here in NE, the weather/conditions can change in a millisecond. And, +1 on the metal edged skis. So much easier to climb with.
When I was out west in February, the trip leader suggested we rent classic skis that were more performance oriented than my Fischer Spyders that are good both in the tracks (which I prefer for the flats) or a little bit in more rugged terrain. The skis were skinnier and did glide faster, but for the terrain in New England, what I have is perfect. I wouldn't mind getting a pair of true back country skis to do more skiing in conservation land that isn't groomed.