There are a number of considerations when buying tires but lets start with some of the key points.

The first is what size is my tire? This can be found on the tire's sidewall information and will look something like 205/55R16.

The next important consideration is the tire's service description .This consists of  two important pieces of information which indicates the tire's maximum load and speed capability. This can be  found on the tire's sidewall usually directly after the size information, and consist of a number and letter. To determine the  actual load and speed capability figures then refer to industry tables. 

There is also a many more other information on the sidewall of the tire such as the tire manufacturer, pattern type and tread wear indicators.

Now we know the size and service description we now need to look at other considerations.