Bowlers or Derbys are hard and firm, made of Felt and have very short brims. While considered a British Icon, the Bowler was also part of the American Urban culture of the 19th Cenury. For Example, one of the gangs that roamed the streets of New York City, around this time, were called the Plug Uglies. The Uglies were never without their Bowler Hats which they wore as their signature piece and to protect thier heads during scuffles with rival gangs.