Guys, I own a 2012 PA12 and a PA14, as well. I find both seats to be comfortable and have no issues fishing out of either boat. It's all really just a matter of personal taste and getting used to the seat in your own boat. My only issue with either was the PA14's seat was too close to the tackle compartment, but that was fixed when I installed the 2" riser seat with slider. In the PA12, if you have any balance at all, the higher CG (when in the raised position) is still no issue. I have fished it in winds over 20mph and never felt uncomfortable. As to sitting sideways, in the coastal waters of Louisiana we have far too many toothy critters for me to be dangling my feet overboard. I wouldn't want any of them to mistake my feet for lunch!
I do think there is a bigger issue with the new PA14 seat than comfort, though...PRICE! It will be a while yet before Hobie finds out if the higher price has lost enough sales for them to rethink things. I bought the last 2012 model from my dealer because the $2500 range is my absolute limit on a kayak. There are plenty of good shallow water boats that can go anywhere a kayak can, and their prices are comparable to the new PA14. I love my Pro Anglers and have no intention of switching boats, but I know a few fisherman that are seriously considering other options at this point.