So THAT'S Why There's A Little Diamond Patch On Some Backpacks

Ever wonder why there’s a little diamond patch sewn onto some backpacks ? 

Turns out, that patch is commonly called a “lash tab” or “pig snout,”  according to Marie Claire. Historically, outdoorsmen would attach ice axes  to the tab with a rope for easy access. Modern explorers might thread earbuds, shoe laces or a wet umbrella cord through the tab, all while looking seamlessly stylish:

Marie Claire highlighted the purpose of lash tabs  last month, and the Internet has been spreading the good news ever since.

As old-school trends  continue to make a comeback, we’ve seen brands like Herschel Supply Co. and JanSport affix lash tabs to their bags. But these days, they’re more decorative than functional , Herschel co-founder Jamie Cormack told the “Today” show.

The lash tabs on Herschel’s packs are “a nod to the past , to pay homage to those old alpine bags that had these,” Cormack said. 

Missing a lash tab? You can buy your own and sew it on, Reader’s Digest  points out.

H/T Marie Claire