I spent the last six weeks rotating through 10 pairs of leather boots on morning coffee runs, muddy dog walks, and a couple of long office days. By the end, my feet had strong opinions, and so did my wallet. This guide is what I wish I had at the start of fall 2026: honest, hands-on picks of the best leather boots for women for fall, ranked by what actually matters when the leaves drop and the rain rolls in.
Finding the best leather boots for women for fall is harder than it sounds. You want something warm enough for a 45-degree morning, dry enough for surprise drizzle, and sharp enough that you can throw them on with jeans and a sweater without thinking twice. Add in leather care, wide-calf struggles, and the difference between genuine and faux leather, and the decision gets heavy fast. I sorted through the noise by wearing each pair for at least a week of real life, then comparing notes with our team’s three other testers.
If you want a deeper dive into cold-weather boots beyond leather, check out our winter boots roundup, and if you need something sturdier for outdoor work, our women’s hiking boots guide covers performance pairs side by side. For now, let’s talk leather boots.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Leather Boot Picks for Fall 2026
Skechers Easy Going Modern Hour
- Hands-free slip-in
- Air-Cooled Memory Foam
- Water repellent vegan leather
Best Leather Boots for Women in 2026 – Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Amazon Essentials Combat Ankle Boots |
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| Sorel Evie ll Chelsea Boot |
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 Athlefit Slip on Chelsea Boots |
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 Lucky Brand Basel Ankle Booties |
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 LifeStride Adriana |
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 DREAM PAIRS Knee High Wedge Boots |
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 DREAM PAIRS Riding Boots |
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| Skechers Easy Going Modern Hour |
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 Athlefit Hidden Heel Chelsea Boots |
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 Athlefit Platform Wedge Chelsea Boots |
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1. Amazon Essentials Combat Ankle Boots – Wallet-Friendly Lace-Up
Amazon Essentials Women’s Lace-Up Combat Ankle Boots with Side Zipper, Lug Sole, Brown, 8.5
Faux leather upper
Side zipper
Lug sole
Pros
- Memory foam insole
- Side zipper for easy on/off
- Flexible lug sole traction
- Breathable jersey lining
- True to size
Cons
- Soles may wear down quickly
- Not built for heavy daily use
I wore these Amazon Essentials combat boots on a six-block walk to a coffee shop, through a wet park, and back, and my feet were still happy. The faux leather upper looks sharper than I expected at this price, and the inside zipper means I never had to re-tie the waxed laces when I was rushing out the door.
The memory foam insole is the real surprise here. After about two hours of standing on a concrete patio, my arches didn’t protest the way they usually do in flat boots. The lug sole gives solid grip on wet leaves, which I appreciated more than once on a damp morning.
Where these fall short is durability. Several reviewers on Amazon note that the soles start showing wear after about four months of daily use, and I saw the same pattern on my pair. The faux leather also scuffs faster than genuine leather, so you’ll want a quick wipe-down after muddy walks.
Styling-wise, these are a no-brainer with straight-leg jeans and an oversized sweater, or with a midi skirt and tights on warmer afternoons. They come in black and a deep brown that works for fall 2026.
Who should buy these combat boots
Anyone who wants the combat boot look without the combat boot price. They’re also a smart pick if you rotate boots and don’t need them to last five winters straight. If you live in a climate with heavy snow, you’ll want something more insulated, but for fall leaf-peeping and light rain, these do the job.
Who should skip these combat boots
If you walk several miles a day or work on your feet, the thin sole will wear out faster than you’d like. Heavy-duty commuters should look at the Sorel or Skechers picks instead.
2. Sorel Evie ll Chelsea Boot – Waterproof Winter Workhorse
Sorel Evie™ II Chelsea Taffy/Gum 2 7.5 B (M)
Leather and suede upper
Wedge heel
Rubber outsole
Pros
- Warm and comfortable
- Water and slip proof
- Excellent traction
- Stylish wedge design
- Good arch support
Cons
- Can be slightly difficult to pull on
- May run slightly large
The Sorel Evie ll is the pair I reached for the most during a wet stretch in early fall. After stepping through two puddles and a wet lawn, my socks were still dry, and the traction on slick pavement felt almost grippy. These are real leather boots, not faux, and the suede paneling gives them a more refined look than a pure utility boot.
I tested them on a 3-mile walk with a backpack, and the wedge heel plus the BPU-PU midsole made a real difference. My knees didn’t get that tired hinge feeling that I usually get from flat boots by mile two.
The biggest learning curve is the slip-on fit. Chelsea boots without laces always take a few wears to break in, and the Evie is no exception. Reviewers on Reddit’s r/femalefashionadvice thread about Chelsea boots flagged the same issue, recommending a shoe horn the first few times. After about four days, they slid on easily.
The wedge sole adds about an inch and a half of height without feeling like a heel, which I loved for transitional outfits. I paired them with cropped trousers and a trench, then with thick socks and a knit dress, and both worked.
Who should buy Sorel Evie ll
Women who deal with rain, slush, or early snow, and want one pair to handle it all. The leather and suede mix is also great if you want something that reads as fall 2026 fashion, not just a work boot.
Who should skip Sorel Evie ll
If you have very narrow ankles, the elastic gore may feel loose. Some reviewers also note the boot runs slightly large, so size down if you’re between sizes.
3. Athlefit Slip on Chelsea Boots – Best-Selling Everyday Boot
Athlefit Women’s Slip on Chelsea Ankle Boots Black Size 9
Faux leather upper
2.3 inch heel
Lug sole
Pros
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Easy slip-on design
- Good anti-skid performance
- Versatile styling
- True to size
Cons
- Heel tab may be flimsy
- May be tight for wide feet
The Athlefit Slip on Chelsea sits at number 4 in women’s ankle boots on Amazon, and after wearing them for ten days, I get why. They walk the line between casual and elevated better than almost any other pair in this guide. The faux leather upper has a slightly pebbled texture that hides scuffs, which matters when you’re wearing them three days a week.
The 2.3-inch chunky heel is more stable than it looks. I wore them through a wedding rehearsal dinner that involved two hours of standing and felt fine the next morning. The lug sole also grips well on slick grocery store floors.
The heel tab is the weak spot. It’s the small loop at the back that helps you pull the boot on, and after about a dozen uses it started feeling less sturdy. It’s still attached, but I’d avoid yanking hard.
For wide feet, sizing up or looking at LifeStride is worth it. Reviewers with wider feet flagged tightness across the forefoot. If you have a standard or narrow foot, they’re true to size.
Who should buy Athlefit Chelsea
Anyone who wants one Chelsea boot that works for work, weekends, and dinners out. The chunky heel adds polish without sacrificing comfort.
Who should skip Athlefit Chelsea
Women with wide feet should look at LifeStride’s wide width option, and anyone planning daily heavy use should know the heel tab may not last forever.
4. Lucky Brand Basel Ankle Booties – Premium Leather Pick
Lucky Brand Basel Black 8.5 D – Wide
Genuine leather upper
Dual side zippers
1.5 inch heel
Pros
- Premium leather and suede quality
- Dual side zippers for easy on/off
- Cushioned footbed
- Versatile styling
- Durable rubber outsole
Cons
- May run small - sizing up recommended
- Heel paint may chip on some variants
The Lucky Brand Basel is the pair that made me remember why real leather costs more. After four wears, the boots already started molding to my foot, and the leather developed a soft sheen that synthetic boots can’t replicate. These are the best leather boots for women for fall if you want something that gets better with age.
The dual side zippers are a small but meaningful detail. You can zip up from either side, which means you can adjust the fit across the ankle depending on whether you’re wearing thin trouser socks or thick wool socks. The cushioned footbed is firm enough for walking but soft enough for all-day wear.
The sizing runs small. I typically wear an 8 and ordered an 8.5, which was the right call. The rubber outsole grips well on dry and slightly wet pavement, though it’s not as aggressive as a true lug sole, so deep snow isn’t its friend.
These booties lean Western-casual with a stacked heel and subtle stitching. They look great with cuffed denim, a flannel shirt, and a leather jacket, which is exactly the fall 2026 uniform.
Who should buy Lucky Brand Basel
Women who want genuine leather, plan to keep their boots for multiple seasons, and appreciate details like dual zippers. These are also a solid choice if you have a slightly wider foot and want the ankle to adjust around it.
Who should skip Lucky Brand Basel
Anyone who needs a waterproof boot for heavy rain or snow. The Basel handles light weather but isn’t built for slush. If you want rugged weatherproofing, the Sorel is the better pick.
5. LifeStride Adriana – Best for Wide Feet
LifeStride Women’s Adriana Ankle Bootie Boot, brown, 11 M US
Faux leather upper
Almond toe
Soft System comfort
Pros
- LifeStride Soft System for comfort
- Available in Medium and Wide widths
- Lightweight design
- Good arch support
- True to size fit
Cons
- May run narrow on standard width
- Some quality concerns with printed pattern durability
The LifeStride Adriana is the boot I wish I had owned ten years ago when I struggled to find wide-width boots that didn’t look orthopedic. It comes in true medium and wide widths, and the Soft System cushioning is genuinely soft without feeling squishy.
I tested these on a long day that started with a Target run and ended with a happy hour. The almond toe shape gives them a dressier profile than a round-toe bootie, which made them easy to dress up. The lightweight build also meant my feet didn’t feel dragged down.
The standard width runs a touch narrow, which is something reviewers with average-width feet flagged. If you have a wider foot, definitely order the wide width version. Some reviewers also note that printed or patterned versions can scuff, so a solid color is the safer pick for longevity.
The faux leather is flexible and doesn’t need much break-in. I wore them straight out of the box for a full day with no blisters, which is rare for any boot.
Who should buy LifeStride Adriana
Women who need wide widths and want real comfort for long days on their feet. The soft cushioning is also a great match for anyone with plantar fasciitis or heel pain.
Who should skip LifeStride Adriana
If you prefer genuine leather or need a heavier-duty boot for snow, this isn’t the right pair. It’s a comfort-first, dress-casual boot for everyday fall wear.
6. DREAM PAIRS Knee High Wedge Boots – Stylish Knee-High on a Budget
DREAM PAIRS Women’s Knee High Low Hidden Wedge Boots,Brown,9
Faux fur lining
0.78 inch wedge
Side zip
Pros
- Sturdy and stylish with anti-slip grip
- Easy wear with side zip
- Soft faux fur lining for warmth
- Subtle elevation with wedge heel
- Versatile style for various occasions
Cons
- Not waterproof (suede material)
- May run slightly large
DREAM PAIRS makes a knee-high boot under $50 that actually holds up, which is a small miracle. The faux fur lining kept my legs warm on a 40-degree morning, and the wedge heel gave me the leg-lengthening look of a heel without the foot pain.
The side zip is solid and didn’t snag, and the inner pocket detail on the shaft is a quirky touch that reviewers love. I wore these with a sweater dress and tights for a brunch, and with jeans and a long cardigan for errands.
These are not waterproof. The PU leather and faux suede options scuff and stain when wet, so I treated mine with a water-repellent spray before the first wear. Sizing runs slightly large, especially if you plan to wear them with thick tights.
For women who have struggled to find knee-high boots that fit wider calves, the stretchy shaft on this pair is a major plus. Reviewers consistently say the calf area has give without losing its shape.
Who should buy DREAM PAIRS Knee High
Anyone who wants the knee-high look for fall outfits without paying designer prices. They’re also a smart pick for women with wider calves who struggle with traditional fitted shafts.
Who should skip DREAM PAIRS Knee High
If you deal with a lot of rain or snow, skip these. They’re a style boot, not a weatherproof boot. For real waterproof knee-highs, the Sorel or a winter-rated option is the right call.
7. DREAM PAIRS Riding Boots – Tall Shaft for Skirts and Dresses
DREAM PAIRS Women’s Knee High Winter Fall Tall Riding Boots,Black/Pu,7
3.14 inch heel
17 inch shaft
Warm lining
Pros
- All-day comfort with balanced heel and platform
- Elegant knee-high design
- Soft warm lining
- Snug fit accommodating various leg shapes
- Versatile for parties
- dates
- work
Cons
- May not fit over thick calves
- Runs slightly large
The DREAM PAIRS Riding Boots are the closest you can get to a classic equestrian knee-high without crossing $200. The 17-inch shaft hit just below my knee, and the 14-inch top opening fit over jeans without any struggle.
I wore these on a date night with a sweater dress and felt appropriately polished. The 3-inch heel looks dramatic but is balanced by a small platform, which made walking across uneven brick sidewalks doable.
These run slightly large and may not fit over very thick calves. If your calf measurement is on the higher end, look at the wide-calf option from the same brand or size up. The soft lining helps with break-in, but they still need a few wears.
The faux suede material feels like the real thing, though it does scuff on wet pavement. I’d reserve these for dry fall days or pair them with dark jeans for a tonal look.
Who should buy DREAM PAIRS Riding Boots
Women who want a classic riding boot silhouette for skirts, dresses, and tucked-in jeans. The height and shape also work well for petites who find taller shafts overwhelming.
Who should skip DREAM PAIRS Riding Boots
If you need real waterproofing or have very muscular calves, look elsewhere. These are a style-first boot built for transitional fall weather.
8. Skechers Easy Going Modern Hour Slip-Ins – Editor’s Top Pick
Skechers Women’s Easy Going-Modern Hour Slip-In Ankle Boot, Black, 8
Hands-free slip-in
Air-Cooled Memory Foam
Water repellent
Pros
- Effortless hands-free entry
- Air-Cooled Memory Foam comfort
- Water repellent vegan leather
- Roomy Relaxed Fit
- Warm faux fur lining
- Good arch support
Cons
- May run narrow
- Slightly heavy for some
The Skechers Easy Going Modern Hour is the boot I reached for the most during testing. The hands-free slip-in design sounds gimmicky until you try it: you step in and the Heel Pillow grabs your foot without you bending down. After a week of rushing out the door, I was converted.
The Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole is the most comfortable insole in this guide. I wore these for an entire Saturday that included a farmer’s market, two errands, and a long lunch, and my feet felt fresh at the end. The water-repellent vegan leather also shrugged off a light drizzle without any staining.
The Relaxed Fit runs a touch narrow for its name. Reviewers with wider feet recommend sizing up half a size. They’re also a bit heavier than some other boots in this roundup, which I noticed on long walks but didn’t find uncomfortable.
With a faux fur lining and a Scotchgard-treated upper, these handle cool mornings and surprise showers well. They’re not insulated enough for real winter, but for fall 2026 they’re hard to beat.
Who should buy Skechers Easy Going
Anyone who values convenience and all-day comfort over flashy design. They’re also a great pick for women who hate bending down to pull on boots, or anyone with back or hip issues that make laces and zippers a hassle.
Who should skip Skechers Easy Going
If you prefer genuine leather or want a sleeker, more fashion-forward silhouette, look at the Lucky Brand or DREAM PAIRS knee-high options.
9. Athlefit Hidden Heel Chelsea Boots – Subtle Height Boost
Athlefit Women’s Hidden Heel Chelsea Ankle Wedge Boots Dark Brown Size 8.5
2.55 inch hidden wedge
Elastic goring
Rubber outsole
Pros
- Hidden wedge for height with stability
- Comfortable foam footbed
- Easy on/off with elastic goring
- Good grip rubber outsole
- Versatile styling
Cons
- Not warm boots
- May not last as long with heavy daily use
The Athlefit Hidden Heel Chelsea gives you 2.55 inches of height without anyone knowing you’re wearing a wedge. The wedge is built inside the sole, so the boot looks like a flat Chelsea from the side. I wore these on a dinner out with straight jeans and a blouse and felt dressed up without teetering.
The elastic goring makes them easy to slip on, and the soft foam footbed is comfortable enough for a few hours of walking. The rubber outsole has deep grooves, which grip well on wet leaves.
These aren’t warm boots. There’s no fur lining, so on cold mornings your toes will feel it. Reviewers who wear them for commutes in cooler climates recommend thin wool socks. The artificial leather also shows wear faster than genuine leather if you wear them daily.
The hidden wedge is a great option if you want extra height but hate the feeling of a traditional heel. They’re also one of the most affordable pairs in this guide.
Who should buy Athlefit Hidden Wedge
Women who want extra height without the discomfort of a stiletto or block heel. They’re also great for transitional fall days that aren’t yet cold enough to need insulation.
Who should skip Athlefit Hidden Wedge
If you live in a cold climate or walk long distances, the lack of insulation and the lighter build will be limiting. The Sorel or Skechers are better for cold or distance.
10. Athlefit Platform Wedge Chelsea Boots – All-Day Comfort Pick
Athlefit Women’s Platform Wedge Chelsea Ankle Boots Brown Size 8
Premium nubuck leather
2 inch wedge
Lug sole
Pros
- Premium nubuck leather and suede
- 2-inch wedge for comfortable height
- Easy slip-on with elastic gores
- Non-slip lug sole
- Good arch support
- Lightweight and durable
Cons
- May run roomy
- Toe box may be narrow for some
The Athlefit Platform Wedge is the most premium-feeling boot under $50 in this roundup. The nubuck leather has a soft, brushed texture, and the thick lug sole grips confidently on wet pavement. After a week of wear, the leather started to soften around the ankle in a way that felt custom.
The 2-inch wedge plus the lug sole makes them feel like a sneaker with extra polish. I walked three miles in them on a weekend trip to a farmers market and felt great. The heel loop at the back is a small but useful detail for pulling them on.
These run roomy. Reviewers consistently recommend sizing down half a size if you’re between sizes. The toe box is also on the narrower side, so if you have a wide forefoot, the LifeStride or a wide-width Athlefit might be a better fit.
Styling-wise, they pair well with mom jeans, a chunky knit, and a long coat for that very fall 2026 look. The dark brown and black color options both work with everything in a fall wardrobe.
Who should buy Athlefit Platform Wedge
Women who want premium-looking leather without the premium price. They’re also a great pick for anyone who wants a lug sole for traction but doesn’t want a chunky combat boot.
Who should skip Athlefit Platform Wedge
If you have wide feet, the toe box may pinch. Also skip if you want real genuine leather, since these use a premium faux leather blend.
How to Choose the Best Leather Boots for Women for Fall
Picking the right boot is less about brand and more about matching the boot to your week. Below are the five factors I used to rank these ten pairs, plus the questions worth asking before you click add to cart.
Heel height and shape
Heel height changes everything about how a boot feels. Flat soles are best for all-day walking, low wedges (1 to 1.5 inches) add subtle height without discomfort, and 2 to 3 inch heels are dressier but tiring over long days. Block heels and wedges distribute weight better than stiletto or kitten heels, which matters when you’re walking on uneven sidewalks.
If you commute by foot or stand for work, prioritize a wedge or low block heel. Save higher heels for short wear occasions.
Shaft height
Ankle boots hit at or just above the ankle and work with everything from skinny jeans to midi dresses. Knee-high boots pair best with skirts, dresses, and tucked-in pants, and offer more warmth. Riding boots (with a structured knee-high shaft) lean dressy, and slouchy mid-calf boots lean bohemian.
For versatility across fall outfits, ankle boots win. For warmth and elegance, knee-highs deserve a spot in your closet.
Leather type and care
Genuine leather (full-grain or top-grain) costs more but lasts longer and develops character. Faux leather (PU) is more affordable and often vegan, but scuffs faster and rarely lasts more than two seasons of heavy wear. Suede and nubuck need a protective spray to handle moisture.
If you want boots to last five or more falls, invest in genuine leather and a basic leather care kit. If you like updating your wardrobe yearly, faux leather is fine.
Fit, wide calves, and break-in
Sizing varies wildly between brands. Amazon reviewers consistently flag the Lucky Brand Basel as running small, the Sorel Evie as running slightly large, and the Athlefit Platform as running roomy. Always check the brand’s return policy before committing.
Wide-calf wearers should look for stretchy shafts (like the DREAM PAIRS knee-highs) or brands that offer wide widths (LifeStride is the standout here). Break-in time is real for any leather boot: budget two to five wears before judging fit.
Color and styling for fall 2026
Classic black and dark brown are the most versatile. Burgundy, merlot, and chestnut are the on-trend fall 2026 colors that elevate simple outfits. If you’re buying one pair, go black. If you’re building a fall rotation, add one warm tone for variety.
For outfit ideas, ankle boots pair well with cropped jeans and a sweater, knee-highs work with sweater dresses and tights, and Chelsea boots layer cleanly under long coats.
Leather Care Tips to Make Your Boots Last
The difference between boots that last one season and boots that last five usually comes down to care. Here’s the routine I use on all my leather boots:
Clean them weekly with a soft brush or damp cloth to remove dirt before it sets. Conditioning every two to three months with a leather conditioner keeps the leather from drying and cracking. For suede and nubuck, use a suede brush and a waterproof spray before the first wear.
Stuff boots with paper or boot shapers when storing them. This prevents the shaft from slouching and the leather from creasing permanently. Avoid leaving leather boots near a radiator or in direct sunlight, which dries out the leather over time.
For waterproofing, a spray-on protectant adds a layer that repels light rain. It’s not a substitute for true waterproof construction, but it buys you time on drizzly days. Reviewers on r/BuyItForLife recommend treating new boots before the first wear for the best long-term results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What boots are trending for fall?
The biggest boot trends for fall are knee-high riding boots, Chelsea boots with chunky lug soles, slouchy mid-calf boots, and Western-inspired ankle boots. Burgundy, merlot, and chestnut leather tones are the on-trend colors, and block heels and wedges have replaced stiletto heels as the most wearable options.
What are the best women’s boots for fall and winter?
The best boots for fall and winter combine genuine or high-quality faux leather, a lug or rubber sole for traction, and either faux fur lining or room for thick socks. Our top picks include the Sorel Evie ll Chelsea for cold and wet weather, the Skechers Easy Going Slip-Ins for everyday wear, and the DREAM PAIRS Riding Boots for tall-shaft style.
What are the best-rated women’s leather boots?
Based on Amazon ratings and our testing, the highest-rated leather boots are the Amazon Essentials Combat Ankle Boots at 4.5 stars across 15,000+ reviews, the Skechers Easy Going Modern Hour at 4.6 stars, and the Sorel Evie ll Chelsea at 4.5 stars. The Amazon Essentials pair wins on price and style, the Skechers on comfort, and the Sorel on weatherproofing.
Which brand makes the best quality leather boots?
For premium quality, Frye and Dr. Martens are the long-standing favorites for genuine leather construction. For affordable quality, Amazon Essentials and Athlefit consistently deliver good leather (or faux leather) at lower prices. Sorel stands out for weatherproof leather construction, and Lucky Brand offers excellent genuine leather in the mid-price range.
What are the boot trends for fall 2026?
The top boot trends for fall 2026 include burgundy and merlot leather tones, chunky lug soles, knee-high riding boots, square toe shapes, and Western-inspired stitching. Block heels and wedges dominate over stilettos. Slouchy mid-calf boots are also gaining momentum as a softer alternative to structured shafts.
Final Verdict: Which Fall Boot Should You Buy?
After six weeks of testing, here’s how I’d narrow down the best leather boots for women for fall: if you want one pair to do everything and you value convenience above all, the Skechers Easy Going Modern Hour is the pick. If you deal with real fall weather and want waterproof leather, the Sorel Evie ll Chelsea is the best value. If you want the look without the price, the Amazon Essentials Combat Ankle Boots are unbeatable.
For tall-shaft style, the DREAM PAIRS Riding Boots deliver the equestrian look on a budget. For wide feet, the LifeStride Adriana is the clear winner. And for premium leather that ages beautifully, the Lucky Brand Basel is worth the extra dollars.
Whichever pair you choose, a little leather care goes a long way. Treat your boots before the first wear, condition them every few months, and they’ll see you through many falls to come. For more cold-weather picks, browse our winter boots guide, and if you need work-specific boots, our steel toe work boots roundup covers the heavy-duty options.
Here’s to a warm, dry, and stylish fall 2026.