Gloss is harder than satin. I put 2 coats of gloss down and then 1 satin. Any scratch will show with gloss. The wood sure looks awesome though. Kids, matchbox cars, tractors and gloss floor do not go together well.

edit - On the edge of your stairs it might look perfectly fine to use.  Oil base deepens some with age.  Water base is supposed to stay the same as when applied.