DeafLamb,
I love you!
That said, I am vegan.
My shoes are Shimano, and they are synthetic.
As for the saddle, my Specialized came with a leather saddle. I asked what would happen if I replaced it with another synthetic one, and they told me that the old one would get tossed. Given that so far I have chosen to ride the old one.
My attempts to find cycling clothing not made in sweatshops has been fruitless thus far, so I am thinking about making my own jerseys.
I commend you and ignore all those that try and convince you otherwise.