re innertube bits, I've put it on rack mounting points, pulling it with some tension, then putting some hockey tape over it, and it stayed well in place, plus you get the "cushion" effect of the rubber underneath (this was mucking around with pannier attachment points on the rack)
I really do think this (the cushion or squish) would be a benefit for cinch down points, as the strap would sink in a bit and not slip--but you guys would have to see if its a help or not.