除奥运圣火，福娃伙伴的形象都采自中国的特有物产或中华文化的特有符号，并连系海洋、森林、大地、天空等自然要素。福娃五伙伴也依次分别应和五行中水、木、火、土、金五个元素。

福娃吉祥物虽然都采用中国娃娃的形式，却共有五个形体，此数目之多创下奥运会吉祥物历史上的纪录。历史上只有2000年悉尼奥运会、2004年雅典奥运会、1988年卡尔加里冬奥会、1994年利勒哈默尔冬奥会、1998年长野冬奥会的吉祥物都有多个形象

  In China＇s traditional culture and art, the fish and water designs are symbols of prosperity and harvest. And so Beibei carries the blessing of prosperity. A fish is also a symbol of surplus in Chinese culture, another measure of a good year and a good life.
  The ornamental lines of the water-wave designs are taken from well-known Chinese paintings of the past. Strong in water sports, she reflects the blue Olympic ring.
   Jingjing makes children smile—and that＇s why he brings the blessing of happiness wherever he goes. As a national treasure and a protected species, pandas are adored by people everywhere. The lotus designs in Jingjing＇s headdress, which are inspired by the porcelain paintings of the Song Dynasty (A.D.960-1234), symbolize the lush forest and the harmonious relationship between man and nature. Jingjing was chosen to represent our desire to protect nature＇s gifts—and to preserve the beauty of nature for all generations，he reflects the black Olympic ring. 
    In the intimate circle of Friendlies, Huanhuan is the big brother. He is a child of fire, symbolizing the Olympic Flame and the passion of sport—and passion is the blessing he bestows. Huanhuan stands in the center of Friendlies as the core embodiment of the Olympic spirit. And while he inspires all with the passion to run faster, jump higher and be stronger, he is also open and inviting. Wherever the light of Huanhuan shines, the inviting warmth of Beijing 2008—and the wishful blessings of the Chinese people-can be felt. He reflects the red Olympic ring.