Overview

Mode of Troon is in a traditional sandstone building ,like many of the shops in. I have often rolled past Mode of Troon admiring the stock in the window but never went in. Because of the steps, I have always seen it as inaccessible like most traditional buildings. However, when out this weekend I happened to notice a sign at the door saying “ring for ramp access”, so I did. Half a minute later Graeme the shop owner appeared with a folding aluminium ramp, set it up and as it was steep duly assisted me up it and into the store. At last, I was finally able to browse!! Mode of Troon previously catered solely to men fitting sizes S - 3XL, but since moving to this larger premise now also caters to women too, fitting sizes 6/8 - 22/24. The clothing range is mostly aimed at golfers, but there are everyday men’s shirts, T-shirts and accessories also available, with well known brands such as Glenmuir, Original Penguin, Weird Fish, and Ben Sherman, and lesser known but equally as good brands. Now you might think pah! I don’t like golf, and I get it, it’s not a sport that interests me. So why would I want to shop in somewhere that sells sports clothing? Graeme offers a very personal service, you have his sole attention with no hard sale and offers complimentary after hours private opening for anyone who would find being around other shoppers difficult to manage. Ideal for those of us who are autistic or live with anxiety or who don’t want people to see the physical characteristics of our disabilities. He is very approachable, down to earth and will try his best to meet your needs. He is well aware of the value of the ‘Purple Pound’ and keen to do whatever it takes to harness it. Currently there is one changing room which I was able to access with no issue and turn around in in my self propelled wheelchair. There is a chair in the room which you can transfer onto if you wish or for anyone using crutches and needs a seat to change. There are plans to add a second changing room which will also be fully wheelchair accessible. If you don’t want to try the clothing on in store there is the option to try on at home and return for refund or exchange, which I was very glad to take advantage of. The store floor plan has been well thought out with the wheelchair user in mind, with plenty of space around the displays to manoeuvre. Most of the stock is within easy reach except for the clothing on the top rail, however I have suggested some grab sticks would be a welcome addition so we don’t have to ask for assistance. The till area has been designed so that if you are in a wheelchair you can sit at it with your legs under the work surface so you don’t have to reach forward to pay, that’s pretty revolutionary and very rare to see in boutiques and the service doesn’t end there, Graeme helps you to mobilise down the ramp safely and sees you on your way. A refreshing experience, if only more businesses were like this. So why golf wear? Well if you are anything like me and find it hard to control body temperature or have medication that makes you sweat, the material is ideal. I normally rely on moisture wicking sportswear which is fine it does the job, but sometimes I want to feel smart and sadly sportswear doesn’t lend itself to that. However, golf wear does and it’s not all Pringle V-neck sweaters with diamond designs on the front! What I found out was that apart from being moisture wicking so quickly absorbs sweat so it’s not seen, and can be quickly washed and dried, was that there was plenty of stretch in the clothing. The ladies smart 7/8 gold chinos were like a spandex type material that helped my tummy feel held in so I felt better dressed and it encourage me to not slouch in my chair. The winter weight version of these trousers is fleece lined and the material is windproof and waterproof, just what you need when you are playing on the links in the wonderful wet and windy Scottish winter weather, or, if you are a wheelchair user and struggle to stay warm and keep your legs dry in the wonderful Scottish winter weather. After all, not everybody wants to wear a granny blanket covering their legs. If you are diabetic or have large ankles and need soft stretchy-top socks he keeps these in stock. The stock and brands he carries is also well thought out. Graeme has explored the manufacturing chain of what he stocks, and where possible has chosen brands that make their clothing from recycled materials or sustainable natural fibres like bamboo which feels lush against your skin. Graeme understands the need to have clothing that not only fits well and makes you feel good but is easy to put on. He has a close working relationship with Perfect Fit alterations across the road, who can add magnetic buttons, Velcro fastenings and any other alterations you may need at a reasonable price. I don’t think the shopping experience can get much better than this! Sorry Mr Bank Manager, I think I’m going to be spending alot of money here!!

Transport & Parking

On street parking on Church Street outside. Disabled parking spot 20m away outside Home Hardware, just before the traffic lights. Bus stop opposite the shop which I know goes to Ayr. Troon and Barassie train stations which are on the Glasgow to Ayr line with trains roughly every 20-30 minutes are within 5 minute drive.

Access

Graeme has tried his best to make his shop as accessible as possible. The ramp access isn’t ideal because the pavement width and on street parking directly outside limits the length of ramp he is able to use, so it is steep and you will more than likely need assistance to get up it. Graeme is exploring other ways to make his store more accessible and has a couple of well sited chairs in store for anyone who needs to rest. The flooring is thick carpet, which does make it a little harder to turn when self-propelling, but given that you are browsing and not rushing this isn’t a hardship in my books.

Toilets

No toilet available. Public toilets are available across the road and there are public toilets with a shower cubicle on the shore front at Barassie however I don’t know how accessible they are.

Staff

An amazing personalised shopping experience like you only see on tv or in very expensive designer shops.

Photos