Jet skis do have reverse, as well as neutral and brakes. A 'reverse gear' is achieved by swiveling the jet of water that normally pushes the watercraft forward by 180 degrees to apply a braking force which will eventually move the jet ski backward.
How do you reverse on a jet ski?
Most modern jet skis have a reverse feature that allows them to move backward. It works by moving the steering nozzle cover over the water outflow tube at the rear of the ski. This redirects the flow of the water jet forward under the ski to move it backward. PWC impellers can't reverse spin direction.
What year did jet skis have reverse?
Sea-Doo pioneered the concept with its Intelligent Brake & Reverse, introduced late in 2008 for the coming 2009 model year.