have you measured.your sitbone width?
I do have this measurement. I don't remember the exact number, but I know what size road saddle I use. This was one of the helpful bits of information I had when going to the shop.
recommendations are almost worthless.
I know. I was more looking for what characteristics riders look for in a mountain bike saddle. I know what I like in a road saddle, but not so much for mountain bike. I'm sure everyone prioritizes different features, but I don't have enough experience to know what to look for. The LBS I went to was not very helpful this time. I've bought the Specialized Power Comp, which is not specifically for mountain. I rode it yesterday and it was much better than the stock saddle was, but it is lacking some characteristics that people have mentioned as being helpful for mountain biking (e.g. sloping down in back to make it easier to scoot back off the seat).
As far as comfort and fit, I felt the fit was great. I don't think I'll have any issues with that.
Re comfort: the ride we did was not at all technical, so I was seated most of the time. The Power Comp has level 2 padding, so not the hardest seat, but not cushy either. For the road, I like a firm saddle. But I'm thinking that for mountain biking I might like a little more cushion. I'll have to see. My plan for now is to just keep using this saddle until I figure out something better.
Thanks for the recommendations and advice, everyone.