Yes, ice ase loops are an amusing feature. I recall at college asking someone if they knew what the loops were for (I used to do alpine climbing, and, I was somewhat of a wiseguy, so, I was setting the individual up). He stated that they were ice axe loops. I asked him if he knew what THAT was. He said that they were used by ice fishermen to chop holes. I asked why they couldnt use regular axes. Well, you see where this conversation is going...he didnt talk to me for about a week