Originally posted by hray -any idea what the little loops on the top flap are for?
Hallie in NM
Here is the case mentioned in the OP:
The little loops are for clipping other items onto the bag to carry them. You could use carabiners or some things, like 3rd-party lens cases, have their own snap-clips. Admittedly, it would be awkward to have things flapping around, but that's what they're for. Some systems have custom flat loops on their bags and matching flat, flexible connectors on lens cases.
Here's Lowepro's. See the flat loop on the lower zip pocket? And the matching belt-loop or flat-loop connector on the lens case? (obviously at different scales)