Souwester said..
Anyone tried one of those rashies with the air pocket on the chest?

Supposed to help bad backs when surfing for a long time?

paddleair.com/ergo/

I have one - singlet style - mainly because my ribs stick out asymmetrically & I thought it would be a solution to 'rib rash'.
I took it away for an Indo surf trip - surfed 8 days straight for 6-8 hours a day - all good - completely comfortable / no problem with my ribs and the arm cutouts were pretty comfortable as well (I did wear it over a regular rashie though - for sun protection - which probably helped?).
it looks a bit odd & you'll probably cop some crap from your mates - BUT - it prolonged my time in the water & doesn't hinder your surfing at all.
Garment quality is high and it's easy to use.
I don't have problems with my back so can't help you there - it does position your chest higher on the board (small amount) but that also means you don't have to extend your neck as much to lift your head - which makes it more comfortable.