3 Rivers Outdoor Company

The owners of 3 Rivers Outdoor Company have not only opened an outdoor equipment/clothing store, but a hub for outdoor activities in the Greater Pittsburgh area.

“We felt like there was a lack of a home for outdoor people in Pittsburgh, a place where they could find out information on the places to get outside or to find other like-minded people passionate to get outside,” Chrissy Iksic, co-owner said.

Iksic, of Aspinwall, and Chris Kaminski, Shaler, opened the new store in Regent Square with a wealth of unique concepts. In addition to serving as a resource for those interested in the outdoors, they are partnering with non-profit groups to help get the word out and raise funding. 3 Rivers Outdoor Company will also sell used gear on consignment.

Opening a small, independent shop might frighten most, but Iksic and Kaminski are not only up for the challenge, but they are well equipped. Iksic served in the Air National Guard, has a pilot’s license and has lived and traveled abroad. Kaminski has a wealth of experience as a mountain rescue team member in Colorado and served as a guide for backpacking and rock climbing trips. The two met through a mutual friend and Iksic stayed friend with Kaminski and his wife, Sarah.

“We did a bit of mountain biking together at Hartwood Acres and it was there after a ride that the idea was first discussed,” Iksic said about the store.

Iksic, who had lived in Denver, had started thinking about moving back to the west.

“Then it dawned on me how much I loved Pittsburgh and what an incredibly good place it was to live an outdoor life,” she said. She approached Kaminski with the idea to open a used gear shop and the two came up with the concept behind their new endeavor.

The non-profit partnerships are perhaps the most unique – and best – aspects of 3 Rivers Outdoor Company.

“We have designated and are continuously looking for non-profits that align with our mission of strengthening the Greater Pittsburgh outdoor community and getting people outside and enjoying the outdoor opportunities surrounding the city,” Kaminski said. 3 Rivers Outdoor Company will team up with two non-profits each quarter and host events and projects to get folks outdoors. They will also donate a percentage of sales and give consigners the option to donate to the non-profit partners.

“Not only are we able to help spread the work of our partners, we are making it easier for outdoor enthusiasts to support the causes and organization that they are passionate about,” Kaminski said.

For more information about 3 Rivers Outdoor Company visit: www.3riversoutdoorcompany.com.