The straps have a spring-loaded (metal) cam buckle that permits you to easily cinch the shoulder straps to your level of comfort when you put the pack on. The buckles have a piece of paracord affixed to them. A simple pull in the upward direction releases the tension on the straps enabling you to loosen them for removal. Red Oxx uses the same fastener on the Rock Hopper sling bag.
This fastener is used mostly on military gear. The acronym stands for All Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment.