They're cool alright, but I'm pretty pleased with my solution to the tasks: I cut 1"x12-14" strips of tire innertube and have a few stuffed into almost every pack, pocket, and wrapped around every PSK.
I can do (I think) everything I'd do with the velcro strips, and much more. Aside from obvious lashing/fastening, a small piece of innertube strip, lit with a match, will start more fire in wet weather than Napalm! Stinks when it burns, but drips hot, flaming, rubber onto tinder and kindling.