Y30 vs CY20 vs SY20: Which WaveWear Women's Running Bottoms Should You Choose?
Looking at three pairs of WaveWear women's running bottoms and not sure which one fits your runs? Here is the short answer: choose the Y30 for full-length knee and calf support, the CY20 for 3/4-length knee and hamstring support, or the SY20 for thigh and hamstring support in a shorter biker style.
All three have AlignX™ kinesiology taping built into the inside of the fabric. The difference is where that taping sits, how much of your leg is covered, and how the compression feels.
At a Glance: Y30 vs CY20 vs SY20
| Y30 | CY20 | SY20 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | Full length | 3/4 capri | Biker shorts |
| Taping area | Knee & calf | Knee & hamstring | Thigh & hamstring |
| Fabric | Polyester 85%, Spandex 15% | Nylon 72%, Spandex 28% | Nylon 70%, Spandex 30% |
| Feel | Comfortable and forgiving | Sporty, less tight | High compression, breathable |
| Pockets | Both sides | Both sides | Side pocket |
| Best for | Everyday running, cycling and gym training | Running, cycling and long workouts | Running, cycling, gym and strength training |
Choose by the Area You Want Supported
This is the most useful question to start with, because each style places its taping in a different spot.
- Knee and calf → Y30. Taping runs over the knee and down the calf. A good match if your calves tighten up or cramp on runs, or if you deal with shin discomfort.
- Knee and hamstring → CY20. Taping covers the knee and the back of the thigh, and the lower leg stays free. A good match if you want knee support but prefer not to have fabric over your calves.
- Thigh and hamstring → SY20. Taping runs along the thigh and hamstring. A good match for speed sessions, hill work and strength days where the upper leg works hardest.
Each product page shows the exact taping pattern in its photos.
Choose by Length and Coverage
- Y30 (full length) covers the most skin, from waist to ankle.
- CY20 (3/4 capri) ends below the knee, so the knee stays covered while the lower leg stays open.
- SY20 (biker shorts) is the shortest and lightest of the three.
Choose by Compression Feel and Fabric
The Y30 uses a polyester-rich fabric and has the most forgiving feel of the three. If you are new to compression wear, it is the easiest place to start.
The CY20 and SY20 both use nylon with a higher spandex share. The CY20 feels sporty without being too tight. The SY20 gives the firmest hold around the thighs and hamstrings while staying breathable.
Which One for Your Running?
- Easy runs and daily training: Y30. Full coverage, soft feel, and pockets on both sides.
- Longer sessions where you want knee support without full-length coverage: CY20.
- Speed work, intervals and mixed gym days: SY20.
You can also pair them: full length for cooler days and easy runs, shorts for hard sessions.
How to Pick Your Size
All three styles come in S, M and L. The built-in taping works best when it sits flat against your skin, so choose a snug fit rather than a loose one. Check the size chart on each product page and compare your waist and thigh measurements. If you are between sizes, contact us and we will help you choose.
Shop the Comparison
Same AlignX™ taping inside. Three lengths, three support zones.
FAQ
Which WaveWear women's running bottoms should I choose?
Choose the Y30 for full-length knee and calf support, the CY20 for 3/4-length knee and hamstring support, or the SY20 for thigh and hamstring support in a shorter biker style.
Which styles have pockets?
All three. The Y30 and CY20 have pockets on both sides, and the SY20 has a side pocket.
Is the taping the same in all three?
All three use the same AlignX™ kinesiology taping built into the inside of the fabric. What changes is the placement: knee and calf on the Y30, knee and hamstring on the CY20, and thigh and hamstring on the SY20.