Sit on vs. sit in kayaks and a knee replacement!?

If you have flexibility and mobility issues it's always best to visit a good outfitter and try out various models to see which are simplest for you to enter.

Many so-called "recreational" models of sit inside kayaks have such huge cockpits that they are easy to enter for people with knee problems.

You might also want to consider pack canoes, which are small solo canoes where you sit in a low seat (not kneeling) and use a double-ended kayak paddle. Old Town has just come out with their Next, which is a version of these. It is heavier than most other pack canoes, but cheaper, and also lighter than most sit on top kayaks.

http://www.paddlenext.com/

Sit on tops are easy to get in and out of, but they are substantially heavier than most sit inside kayaks for the most part.

The sit on tops would be easier to get on, but some of the traditional kayaks like Folbot have very wide washboards so entry shouldn't be too much of a problem, since usually you grasp the washboards when getting in, so not to much of weight on your legs.